David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest health, wellness, and racquets club in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a significant £11.5 million investment. The new facility, which opened its doors on June 28, has created approximately 80 new jobs in the local area and is the company's 103rd club in the UK.
The Shawfair club is designed to provide a comprehensive range of amenities for families and individuals, including state-of-the-art fitness equipment, swimming pools, tennis courts, and a luxury spa. This opening marks a key part of David Lloyd's ongoing expansion strategy, aimed at bringing premium leisure facilities to growing communities across the country.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has invested £11.5 million in a new facility in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The club's opening has generated around 80 new full-time and part-time jobs.
- Key features include a 100-station gym, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis courts, and a luxury spa.
- The facility is the 103rd David Lloyd Club in the UK and the fourth in Scotland.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The development of the Shawfair club represents a substantial commitment to the local economy and community health. The £11.5 million project was constructed over a period of 18 months, transforming a previously undeveloped site into a modern leisure hub. The creation of 80 new jobs offers a significant boost to local employment, with roles ranging from fitness instructors and spa therapists to hospitality and administrative staff.
According to the company, the Shawfair location was strategically chosen to serve a rapidly expanding residential area. The club aims to become a central point for community life, offering a safe and engaging environment for families. Local officials have welcomed the investment, highlighting its potential to enhance the quality of life for residents and attract further development to the region.
"We are thrilled to bring our world-class facilities to the Shawfair community. This club is more than just a gym; it's a destination for families to spend quality time together, focusing on their health and wellbeing," said Kristen Westwood, General Manager of David Lloyd Shawfair.
The investment underscores a growing trend in the leisure industry, where consumers are increasingly seeking premium, all-in-one destinations that cater to fitness, relaxation, and social activities. The Shawfair club is positioned to meet this demand with its extensive range of services under one roof.
Inside the State-of-the-Art Facility
The new club offers a wide array of facilities designed to cater to diverse fitness levels and interests. The centerpiece of the fitness area is a 100-station gym, equipped with the latest technology from leading brands. This includes a variety of cardio machines, resistance training equipment, and a dedicated free weights area.
For those who prefer group exercise, the club features three specialized studios. These will host over 100 classes per week, including David Lloyd's signature programs such as BLAZE, a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout, and SPIRIT, a holistic class combining yoga, Pilates, and meditation.
What is BLAZE?
BLAZE is a popular signature class at David Lloyd Clubs. It is a HIIT workout that combines cardiovascular training, strength exercises, and combat-inspired movements in a dedicated studio with dynamic lighting and music. Participants wear heart rate monitors to track their performance and ensure they are working in the optimal training zones.
Swimming and Racquet Sports
Aquatics are a major focus at the Shawfair club. The facility boasts both a 25-meter indoor swimming pool and a 20-meter heated outdoor pool, allowing for year-round swimming. The indoor pool will be used for lane swimming, aqua aerobics classes, and the company's Swim All Stars coaching program for children.
Racquet sports enthusiasts are also well-served with three indoor tennis courts and three outdoor Padel courts. Padel, a fast-growing sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, is a new addition aimed at attracting a wider audience. The club will offer coaching for all ages and abilities in both tennis and Padel.
Luxury Spa and Family-Friendly Spaces
Beyond fitness, the Shawfair club places a strong emphasis on relaxation and recovery. The luxurious Spa Retreat is designed as a sanctuary for members to unwind. It includes a hydro pool, sauna, steam room, and heated spa beds.
Facility at a Glance
- Investment: £11.5 million
- Gym: 100+ stations
- Pools: 25m indoor, 20m outdoor
- Tennis Courts: 3 indoor
- Padel Courts: 3 outdoor
- Jobs Created: Approximately 80
The club is also tailored to be a family-friendly destination. A dedicated DL Kids area provides activities for children, including sports, games, and arts and crafts, all aligned with the national curriculum. This allows parents to use the gym or spa facilities while their children are supervised in a safe and stimulating environment.
A spacious Clubroom serves as the social heart of the facility. It features an indoor restaurant and an outdoor patio area, offering a menu of fresh, healthy meals and drinks. The club also includes a business hub with complimentary Wi-Fi, providing a quiet space for members who wish to work remotely.
Impact on the Shawfair Community
The opening of the David Lloyd Club is seen as a significant milestone in the development of the Shawfair new town. The project, which is one of the largest urban expansion projects in Scotland, is planned to include 4,000 new homes, schools, and commercial spaces.
The addition of a premium leisure facility is expected to make the area more attractive to prospective homebuyers and businesses. Kristen Westwood, the club's General Manager, stated that there has been a high level of interest from the local community, with a strong number of pre-opening memberships sold.
"The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive. We've already welcomed hundreds of new members and are excited to become an integral part of life in Shawfair," Westwood added.
The club's presence is anticipated to have a ripple effect on the local economy, not only through direct employment but also by increasing footfall to the area and supporting local suppliers. As the Shawfair community continues to grow, the David Lloyd Club is positioned to be a cornerstone of its social and recreational infrastructure for years to come.