David Lloyd Leisure has opened its newest health and wellness club in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a £15.5 million investment. The new facility, which opened its doors to members, is expected to create approximately 80 new jobs and provide a comprehensive range of fitness and leisure services to the rapidly growing community.
The club is the 103rd in the UK for the David Lloyd group and its fourth in Scotland. It aims to serve as a community hub, offering extensive family-friendly facilities, premium fitness equipment, and dedicated wellness spaces designed to cater to a wide range of members.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has invested £15.5 million in a new club in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The facility has created around 80 full-time and part-time jobs in the local area.
- Features include indoor and outdoor pools, a state-of-the-art gym, tennis and Padel courts, and a luxury spa.
- The club is designed as a family-oriented destination with extensive children's programs and a dedicated Clubroom for socializing.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The new David Lloyd Club represents a significant investment in the Shawfair development, a major residential and commercial project situated between Edinburgh and Dalkeith. The £15.5 million facility is strategically located to serve the thousands of new homes being built in the area, providing essential leisure infrastructure for new and existing residents.
Construction of the club was a substantial project, bringing economic activity to the region even before its official opening. Now operational, it introduces approximately 80 new permanent jobs, ranging from fitness instructors and spa therapists to hospitality and management roles. This contributes directly to the local economy and provides employment opportunities for the Midlothian community.
According to company statements, the Shawfair location was chosen due to the area's significant growth and the demand for high-quality, family-focused leisure facilities. The club is positioned not just as a gym but as a central part of the community's social fabric.
Inside the New Facility
The Shawfair club spans a large site and houses a wide array of modern amenities. The centerpiece is a 100-station gym equipped with the latest technology from leading fitness brands. Members have access to a variety of cardio machines, weightlifting equipment, and functional training zones.
For swimmers, the club offers both a 20-meter indoor pool and a 25-meter heated outdoor pool, allowing for year-round swimming. The outdoor pool area is complemented by a patio and sun loungers, creating a resort-like atmosphere during warmer months.
What is Shawfair?
Shawfair is one of Scotland's most significant new town developments. Located southeast of Edinburgh, the project plans to deliver 4,000 new homes, schools, public parks, and commercial spaces over the next two decades. The inclusion of a David Lloyd Club is part of the master plan to create a fully serviced, modern community with high-quality amenities.
Comprehensive Health and Racquet Sports Offerings
David Lloyd has built its brand on providing more than just a gym. The Shawfair club continues this tradition with a strong focus on racquet sports and holistic wellness. The facility includes three indoor tennis courts and, notably, three Padel courts. Padel, a fast-growing sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, is a key feature intended to attract a broad demographic.
Beyond the gym floor, the club offers a variety of specialized fitness experiences. There are three dedicated group exercise studios:
- BLAZE Studio: A high-intensity interval training (HIIT) class that combines cardio, strength, and combat training in a boutique-style setting.
- Rhythm Studio: A high-energy cycling studio designed for immersive group cycle classes.
- SPIRIT Studio: A holistic space for yoga, Pilates, and other mind-body classes, offering a calmer environment for members to unwind.
These specialized studios reflect the industry trend towards offering curated, boutique fitness experiences within a larger club environment.
The Spa and Wellness Retreat
A significant portion of the club is dedicated to relaxation and recovery. The luxury spa, known as the Spa Retreat, is designed as an adults-only sanctuary. It provides a comprehensive thermal spa experience, including a large hydrotherapy pool, a Finnish sauna, a crystal steam room, and a salt steam room.
The spa also features experience showers, heated relaxation beds, and an outdoor spa garden for quiet contemplation. This focus on wellness is a core part of the David Lloyd offering, catering to members looking for a comprehensive health solution that includes both physical activity and mental relaxation.
A Destination for the Whole Family
One of the key differentiators for David Lloyd is its family-centric approach. The Shawfair club is equipped with extensive facilities for children, making it an attractive option for parents. The DL Kids program offers a wide range of supervised activities, including sports coaching, arts and crafts, and specialized fitness classes for different age groups.
The club also features an indoor soft-play area and dedicated kids' zones, allowing parents to use the gym or spa facilities while their children are engaged in safe and fun activities. This integrated approach ensures that the club serves the needs of every family member.
"Our goal was to create more than just a place to work out; we wanted to build a community hub where families can spend quality time together," said a spokesperson for David Lloyd. "From our kids' programs to our Clubroom, every aspect is designed to foster a welcoming social environment."
The social heart of the club is the Clubroom, a spacious restaurant, bar, and lounge area. It offers a full menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, providing a comfortable space for members to socialize, work, or relax after a workout. The Clubroom also features a dedicated family area and an outdoor terrace, further enhancing its role as a social destination.
Impact on the Local Community
The opening of the David Lloyd Club is a milestone for the Shawfair development. It not only provides a premium leisure facility but also enhances the overall appeal of the area for prospective homebuyers. Such amenities are often a key factor for families when choosing a place to live.
Local officials have welcomed the investment, highlighting the economic benefits of job creation and the health benefits of having such a comprehensive wellness facility available to the community. As Shawfair continues to grow, the club is expected to become an integral part of local life, hosting community events and promoting active lifestyles for thousands of residents in Midlothian and beyond.