David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest facility in Shawford, a £15 million investment aimed at providing premium health, wellness, and leisure services to the local community. The new club, which began welcoming members this week, has created over 100 new full-time and part-time jobs in the area.
The state-of-the-art facility spans 95,000 square feet and features a wide range of amenities, including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, advanced gym equipment, and dedicated spaces for families. This opening marks a significant expansion for the David Lloyd brand and a major addition to the local economy and community infrastructure.
Key Takeaways
- A new £15 million David Lloyd Club has opened in Shawford.
- The project has created over 100 new local jobs.
- The facility includes indoor and outdoor pools, a high-tech gym, tennis courts, and a luxury spa.
- The club is designed with a strong focus on family-friendly activities and wellness programs.
A Comprehensive Health and Wellness Destination
The new Shawford club is designed to be more than just a gym. It positions itself as a comprehensive destination for health, fitness, and relaxation. The company has invested heavily in providing a diverse range of facilities to cater to individuals and families with varying interests and fitness levels.
State-of-the-Art Fitness Facilities
The centerpiece of the club is its expansive gym floor, which is equipped with the latest fitness technology. Members have access to a wide array of cardio machines, resistance training equipment, and a large free-weights area. The gym also features specialized zones for functional training, such as TRX suspension systems and plyometric platforms.
In addition to the main gym, there are three dedicated group exercise studios. These studios will host a packed schedule of over 130 classes each week, including popular options like yoga, Pilates, spinning, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). A specialized Blaze studio offers a unique boutique-style HIIT workout that combines cardio, strength, and combat training.
Facility at a Glance
- Total Investment: £15 million
- Size: 95,000 square feet
- Jobs Created: 100+
- Weekly Classes: Over 130
- Tennis Courts: 5 (3 indoor, 2 outdoor)
Aquatics and Racquet Sports
Swimming facilities are a major highlight of the new club. It boasts a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons, alongside a shallower indoor family splash pool. An outdoor 20-meter heated pool allows for year-round swimming and is surrounded by a sun terrace and loungers for relaxation during warmer months.
For racquet sports enthusiasts, the club offers five championship-standard tennis courts—three indoor and two outdoor—allowing for play in any weather. Certified coaches are available for private lessons and group sessions for all ages and skill levels. The club also features badminton and squash courts.
Focus on Family and Community
A key aspect of the David Lloyd model is its focus on providing a family-friendly environment. The Shawford location includes extensive facilities and programs designed specifically for children, making it a destination for the entire family.
About David Lloyd Clubs
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure Ltd is a leading health, sport, and leisure group in Europe. It operates over 130 clubs across the UK and mainland Europe. The company is known for its premium facilities, focus on racquet sports, and family-oriented environment.
DL Kids and Childcare Services
The club features a dedicated DL Kids area with a soft-play frame, activity rooms, and an outdoor play area. A comprehensive schedule of activities for children aged 3 months to 16 years is available, including sports coaching, arts and crafts, and educational workshops. These programs are designed to run alongside adult class schedules, allowing parents to work out while their children are engaged in supervised activities.
The club also includes an on-site crèche, providing professional childcare for younger children while their parents use the facilities. This service is intended to make it easier for parents to maintain their health and wellness routines.
"Our goal was to create a space where families can spend quality time together while also pursuing their individual health and fitness goals. We believe the Shawford club will become a central hub for the local community."
Luxury Spa and Social Spaces
Beyond fitness, the club emphasizes relaxation and social connection. The luxury spa area, branded as the Spa Retreat, offers a premium wellness experience for adult members.
The Spa Retreat
The spa facilities are designed to provide a tranquil escape. Key features include:
- A hydrotherapy pool
- Himalayan salt sauna
- A crystal steam room
- An ice fountain
- Heated relaxation beds
The Spa Retreat is an adults-only area, providing a quiet environment for members to unwind and de-stress. Access to these facilities is included in certain membership tiers.
Clubroom and Restaurant
At the heart of the club is the Clubroom, a spacious café, bar, and restaurant area. It serves a menu of fresh, healthy meals, snacks, and drinks throughout the day. The space is designed to be a social hub where members can work, relax, or socialize with friends and family. An adults-only business area with high-speed Wi-Fi is also available for those who wish to work remotely.
Economic Impact and Local Reception
The opening of the David Lloyd Club in Shawford represents a significant investment in the local economy. The creation of over 100 permanent jobs provides a welcome boost to employment in the region. Roles range from fitness instructors and lifeguards to administrative staff and hospitality professionals.
Local officials have welcomed the development. Councillor Mark Henderson, representing the local economic development committee, commented on the opening.
"This is a fantastic development for Shawford and the surrounding area. The investment and job creation are incredibly valuable, and the facility itself provides a much-needed, high-quality leisure resource for our residents. It promotes a healthy and active lifestyle, which is a key priority for our community."
The construction phase also provided temporary employment and utilized local suppliers where possible, further contributing to the regional economy. The club is expected to attract members from a wide radius, potentially increasing footfall for other local businesses.
Membership and Access Information
David Lloyd Clubs operate on a membership model, with various tiers available to suit different needs. Membership options typically include packages for individuals, couples, and families. The tiers often vary based on the level of access to facilities like the spa and specific racquet sports.
Prospective members are encouraged to visit the club for a tour to see the facilities firsthand and discuss membership options with the on-site team. The company has reported strong initial interest, with a significant number of founding members signing up before the official opening day.
The club's opening is seen as a sign of confidence in the leisure sector and its recovery. As people continue to prioritize health and well-being, facilities that offer a comprehensive and high-quality experience are in high demand.