David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest health and wellness facility in Shawfair, Midlothian, following an £11.5 million investment. The club, which is the company's 103rd location in the UK, aims to provide comprehensive fitness and leisure services to the growing community south-east of Edinburgh.
The new facility spans 7,800 square meters and includes a range of amenities designed for individuals and families. The opening marks a significant addition to the local area, creating over 80 new jobs and offering a modern space for health, relaxation, and social activities.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has invested £11.5 million to open a new club in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The facility is the company's 103rd UK club and the fifth in Scotland.
- The new club has created more than 80 full-time and part-time jobs in the local community.
- Amenities include a 20-meter indoor pool, a hydrotherapy pool, a state-of-the-art gym, and dedicated family spaces.
Facility Features and Investment
The Shawfair David Lloyd Club represents a substantial investment in the region's leisure infrastructure. The £11.5 million project was designed to meet the high standards associated with the David Lloyd brand, incorporating modern equipment and a variety of specialized zones.
The centerpiece of the club is its extensive aquatic area. Members have access to a 20-meter indoor swimming pool and a separate, warmer hydrotherapy pool for relaxation. The facility also includes a sauna, a steam room, and heated beds, providing a complete spa-like experience.
By the Numbers
- Investment: £11.5 million
- UK Clubs: 103
- Scotland Clubs: 5
- Jobs Created: 80+
- Club Size: 7,800 square meters
State-of-the-Art Fitness Equipment
The gymnasium at the Shawfair location is equipped with the latest fitness technology. According to David Lloyd, the gym floor features cutting-edge cardio and resistance machines, as well as a large free-weights area. This setup caters to various workout preferences, from casual fitness to intensive strength training.
In addition to the main gym, the club offers several specialized studios. These include a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) studio, a spin studio for cycling classes, and a Mind & Body studio for activities like yoga and Pilates. This multi-studio approach allows for a diverse class schedule to serve a wide range of member interests.
A Focus on Family and Community
A key aspect of the David Lloyd model is its emphasis on family-friendly services, and the Shawfair club is no exception. The facility includes dedicated spaces and programs for children, aiming to integrate health and wellness into family life.
The club features a DL Kids area where children can participate in supervised activities while their parents use the facilities. There are also specific swimming times and coaching sessions available for younger members, promoting an active lifestyle from an early age.
About David Lloyd Leisure
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure is a leading health, sport, and leisure group in Europe. The company operates 132 clubs, with 103 in the UK and an additional 29 across mainland Europe. It serves approximately 730,000 members and employs around 8,100 people, including over 2,000 health and fitness experts.
Beyond fitness, the club is designed as a social hub. The Clubroom provides a comfortable space for members to work, relax, or socialize. It features an indoor seating area and an outdoor patio, serving a menu of food and drinks throughout the day. This communal area is intended to foster a sense of community among members.
Economic Impact and Local Development
The opening of the David Lloyd Club is a significant development for the Shawfair area, a newly planned town located between Edinburgh and Dalkeith. The creation of more than 80 new jobs provides a direct economic boost to Midlothian.
Stacey Parnell, the General Manager of the new club, commented on the local impact.
"We are thrilled to be open and to welcome our first members to this fantastic new club. The team has worked incredibly hard to get us to this point, and it’s wonderful to see the local community enjoying the facilities. David Lloyd Shawfair is a place for families and friends to spend quality time together, and we are excited to be part of this growing community."
The facility's location within the Shawfair development is strategic. As thousands of new homes are built in the area, the club is positioned to become a central amenity for new and existing residents, contributing to the overall appeal and lifestyle offering of the new town.
Membership and Services
David Lloyd clubs operate on a membership model, offering different tiers of access to their facilities. The Shawfair club provides packages for individuals, couples, and families. Membership includes access to the gym, swimming pools, spa facilities, and a wide range of group exercise classes.
Additional services are available to members, often at an extra cost. These can include:
- Personal training sessions
- Swimming and tennis coaching
- Children's activity programs
- Specialized wellness treatments
The company emphasizes a premium experience, combining high-quality facilities with expert staff and a community-oriented atmosphere. The success of the Shawfair club will depend on its ability to attract and retain members from the surrounding areas of Midlothian and south-east Edinburgh.