David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest health, wellness, and racquet club in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a £12 million investment. The new facility, which began welcoming members on June 10, is expected to create 80 full-time and part-time jobs, providing a significant boost to the local economy.
Spanning 8,100 square metres, the club offers a wide range of premium amenities, including a state-of-the-art gym, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a luxury spa, and extensive racquet sports facilities. The opening marks David Lloyd's 104th club in the UK and its third in Scotland.
Key Takeaways
- A new £12 million David Lloyd Club has opened in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The facility has created 80 new full-time and part-time local jobs.
- Features include a 100-station gym, indoor and outdoor pools, a luxury spa, and multiple racquet courts.
- The club aims to serve as a community hub for families, individuals, and professionals in the growing Shawfair area.
Club Features and Amenities
The Shawfair David Lloyd Club is designed to cater to a wide range of fitness and leisure needs. The facility is equipped with modern equipment and offers a variety of spaces for exercise, relaxation, and social activities.
State-of-the-Art Fitness Facilities
At the core of the new club is a 100-station gymnasium. The gym floor is divided into specialised zones, each equipped with advanced fitness technology. Members have access to a wide array of cardio machines, weightlifting equipment, and functional training areas.
In addition to the main gym, the club features three dedicated group exercise studios. These studios will host over 100 classes each week, including popular David Lloyd programs such as BLAZE, a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout, and SPIRIT, which combines yoga, Pilates, and meditation.
Facility at a Glance
- Total Investment: £12 million
- Size: 8,100 square metres
- Gym Stations: 100+
- Weekly Classes: Over 100
- Swimming Pools: 3 (2 indoor, 1 outdoor)
- Racquet Courts: 7 (3 Padel, 4 Tennis)
Aquatics and Spa
The club's aquatic facilities include a 25-metre indoor swimming pool and a separate, shallower indoor pool for children and families. An outdoor swimming pool, complete with a sun terrace, provides a space for relaxation during warmer months.
Adjacent to the pools is a luxury spa area. The spa includes a sauna, steam room, and a hydrotherapy pool, designed to offer members a place for recovery and relaxation. These facilities are intended to complement the club's fitness offerings, promoting a holistic approach to wellness.
Focus on Racquet Sports and Family Services
David Lloyd Clubs has a long-standing reputation for its racquet sports programs, and the Shawfair location continues this tradition. The new facility includes four floodlit tennis courts and, notably, three Padel courts. Padel is a rapidly growing sport that combines elements of tennis and squash.
"Our new Shawfair club is a testament to our commitment to providing exceptional health and wellness experiences. We are thrilled to bring our world-class facilities to the Midlothian community and create a space where families and individuals can prioritise their well-being."
The introduction of Padel courts reflects a growing trend in the UK fitness market. The sport is known for being easy to learn and highly social, making it an attractive option for members of all ages and skill levels.
Family-Oriented Offerings
A key component of the David Lloyd model is its focus on family-friendly services. The Shawfair club includes a dedicated DL Kids area, which will host a variety of supervised activities for children aged 3 months to 16 years. This allows parents to use the gym or attend classes while their children are engaged in age-appropriate activities.
The club also features a Clubroom, a social space with an indoor and outdoor terrace where members can work, relax, or dine. This area is designed to function as a community hub, encouraging social interaction among members.
The Growth of Shawfair
Shawfair is one of Scotland's most significant new town developments. Located southeast of Edinburgh, the area is planned to include 4,000 new homes, schools, and commercial spaces. The opening of a major facility like the David Lloyd Club is a key milestone in the development of the community's social and recreational infrastructure, making the area more attractive to new residents.
Economic Impact and Community Role
The establishment of the David Lloyd Club in Shawfair represents more than just a new fitness facility; it is a significant economic driver for the region. The creation of 80 new jobs covers a range of roles, from fitness instructors and spa therapists to administrative and hospitality staff.
This job creation is particularly important for the growing Midlothian area, providing employment opportunities for local residents. The investment also signals confidence in the long-term economic viability of the Shawfair development.
A Hub for a New Community
As a new town, Shawfair is in the process of building its community identity. Large-scale facilities like the David Lloyd Club play a crucial role in this process. They provide a central meeting point for residents, fostering social connections and a sense of place.
According to the developers, the club is strategically located to serve not only the new residents of Shawfair but also those from surrounding areas like Dalkeith and Sheriffhall. Its proximity to the Shawfair train station and major road networks makes it easily accessible to the wider Midlothian population.
The club's management has expressed its intention to become an active part of the local community. Plans are underway to partner with local schools and organisations to promote health and fitness initiatives. This integration is vital for the long-term success and positive impact of the facility.