David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest facility in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a £15.5 million investment. The new health and wellness club, which is the company's 103rd location in the UK, has created 80 new jobs and offers a wide range of premium fitness and leisure amenities for families and individuals.
The Shawfair club is the first new David Lloyd facility to open in Scotland in nearly a decade. It is designed to serve the growing communities of Midlothian and East Lothian, providing extensive health, wellness, and social spaces. The opening marks a significant expansion for the group and reflects a growing demand for comprehensive family-oriented leisure centers.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has opened a new £15.5 million facility in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The new club has created 80 full-time and part-time jobs in the local area.
- It is the 103rd David Lloyd Club in the UK and the first new opening in Scotland for almost 10 years.
- Facilities include indoor and outdoor pools, a state-of-the-art gym, tennis courts, a luxury spa, and extensive family amenities.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The development of the Shawfair club represents a significant financial commitment to the region. The £15.5 million investment underscores David Lloyd's confidence in the area's growth and the local demand for premium health and fitness services. The project was designed to become a central hub for the community, offering more than just a place to exercise.
Construction of the multi-purpose facility focused on creating a modern, high-quality environment. The club is strategically located to serve residents of Shawfair, Dalkeith, and surrounding areas, providing easy access to its comprehensive offerings. The creation of 80 jobs provides a welcome boost to the local economy, spanning roles in fitness instruction, hospitality, management, and operations.
"We are thrilled to finally open our doors and welcome our first members to the new club," stated Stuart Caswell, General Manager of David Lloyd Shawfair. "This is more than just a gym; it’s a destination for families and individuals to spend quality time together, focusing on their health and well-being."
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The establishment of the club has a direct economic benefit for Midlothian. The 80 new positions offer a mix of full-time and part-time employment, catering to a diverse range of skills. According to the company, recruitment focused on hiring from the local community where possible, further integrating the club into the fabric of Shawfair.
This development is part of a broader trend of investment in leisure infrastructure as communities increasingly prioritize health and wellness. The long-term presence of a major brand like David Lloyd is expected to attract further business and residential interest in the area.
About David Lloyd Leisure Group
The David Lloyd Leisure Group operates 133 clubs, with 103 in the UK and an additional 30 across mainland Europe. The company serves over 750,000 members and is a leading provider in the health, sport, and leisure sector. Known for its family-friendly approach, the group's facilities typically combine fitness centers with racquet sports, swimming pools, and social spaces.
Extensive Facilities for All Ages
The Shawfair club boasts an impressive array of facilities designed to cater to a wide demographic. The centerpiece is the 100-station gym, which features the latest fitness technology, including cutting-edge cardio and strength training equipment. This central area is complemented by several specialized studios for group classes.
Swimming facilities are a major highlight, with both a 25-meter indoor pool and a 20-meter heated outdoor pool. This allows for year-round swimming, lane swimming, and family splash time. The outdoor pool area is surrounded by a patio with sun loungers, creating a resort-like atmosphere during warmer months.
Key Club Features at a Glance
- Gym: A 100+ station gym with advanced equipment.
- Pools: 25m indoor pool and 20m heated outdoor pool.
- Racquet Sports: 3 indoor tennis courts and 2 outdoor Padel courts.
- Spa: Luxury spa with a hydro pool, sauna, steam room, and heated beds.
- Group Classes: 4 studios offering over 100 weekly classes, including BLAZE, IGN1TE, and SPIRIT.
- Family: DL Kids facilities, soft play area, and family-friendly changing rooms.
Specialized Fitness and Relaxation Zones
Beyond the main gym floor, the club offers four dedicated group exercise studios. These spaces host more than 100 classes each week. Signature David Lloyd classes on the schedule include:
- BLAZE: A high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout in a boutique-style studio.
- IGN1TE: A mixed martial arts-inspired cardio and strength class.
- SPIRIT: A holistic class combining elements of yoga, Pilates, and meditation.
- Cyclone: An immersive group cycling class.
For relaxation and recovery, the club includes a luxurious spa area. This zone features a hydro pool, a Finnish sauna, a steam room, and heated relaxation beds. This emphasis on wellness is a core part of the David Lloyd model, providing members with a space to de-stress as well as exercise.
A Focus on Family and Community
A key differentiator for David Lloyd Clubs is its strong emphasis on family. The Shawfair location was built with this in mind, incorporating extensive facilities for children. The DL Kids program offers a range of activities for children aged 3 months to 16 years, all aligned with the national curriculum.
The club includes a dedicated soft play area, family-specific changing rooms, and coaching programs for sports like tennis and swimming. This integrated approach allows parents to use the gym or attend a class while their children are engaged in supervised activities.
The social aspect of the club is anchored by the Clubroom, a spacious café, bar, and restaurant. It serves a full menu of meals, snacks, and drinks throughout the day. The space is designed for multiple uses, from a post-workout coffee to a family dinner. It also includes a dedicated business hub area with workstations and Wi-Fi, catering to members who wish to work remotely from the club.
"Our goal was to create a premium, welcoming space where our members can achieve their wellness goals, relax, and connect with others," Caswell added. "The early response from the community has been incredibly positive, and we are excited to become a fixture in Shawfair for years to come."
The opening of the Shawfair club signals a continued commitment from David Lloyd to expand its footprint and invest in high-quality, community-focused wellness destinations across the UK. With its modern design and comprehensive offerings, the new facility is poised to become a popular destination for residents throughout Midlothian.