David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest health and wellness club in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a £13.5 million investment. The new facility, which is the company's 103rd club in the UK, has created approximately 80 new jobs in the local area and offers a wide range of premium fitness and relaxation amenities.
The state-of-the-art club is located next to the Shawfair Park and Ride, providing easy access for residents in the growing community and surrounding regions. It represents a significant addition to the area's leisure infrastructure, catering to families, individuals, and corporate members.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has opened a new club in Shawfair, Midlothian, Scotland.
- The project involved a £13.5 million investment and created around 80 local jobs.
- The facility includes a 100-station gym, multiple swimming pools, a spa, and family-friendly areas.
- This opening marks David Lloyd's 103rd club in the UK and its third in the Edinburgh area.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The development of the Shawfair club underscores a growing demand for comprehensive health and wellness facilities that cater to all ages. The £13.5 million investment has produced a modern complex designed to be a central hub for the community's fitness and social activities.
According to the company, the club aims to provide a premium experience that combines fitness, family time, and relaxation. The creation of 80 full-time and part-time positions offers a boost to the local economy, with roles ranging from management and fitness instruction to hospitality and operations.
Strategic Location and Accessibility
The club's location was chosen to serve the rapidly expanding Shawfair community, a major housing development situated between Edinburgh and Dalkeith. Its proximity to the Borders Railway line and major road networks makes it an accessible destination for a wide catchment area.
Stirling Stewart, the General Manager of the new club, highlighted the importance of this location.
"Shawfair is a vibrant and growing community, and we are thrilled to bring our world-class facilities here. Our goal is to be more than just a gym; we want to be a place where families and individuals can spend quality time together, focusing on their health and wellbeing."
Inside the New Shawfair Facility
The new David Lloyd club spans a significant area, offering a diverse array of amenities designed to meet various fitness and leisure needs. The facilities are divided into distinct zones for exercise, relaxation, and socializing.
Facility at a Glance
- Total Investment: £13.5 million
- Jobs Created: Approximately 80
- Gym Size: Over 100 stations
- Swimming Pools: 25m indoor pool, 20m outdoor pool, and a kids' splash pool
- Spa Facilities: Himalayan salt sauna, citrus steam room, hydrotherapy pool
- Racquet Sports: 3 Padel courts
These features position the club as one of the most comprehensive leisure offerings in the region, moving beyond a traditional gym model to provide a holistic wellness experience.
State-of-the-Art Fitness Equipment
The centerpiece of the club is its expansive gym, which is equipped with over 100 stations. This includes the latest technology from leading fitness brands, offering a mix of cardio machines, resistance training equipment, and a large free-weights area.
In addition to the main gym floor, the club features several specialized fitness zones:
- Group Cycling Studio: A dedicated space for high-energy instructor-led cycling classes.
- High-Impact Studio: Designed for classes like BodyPump™ and circuit training.
- Mind & Body Studio: A calmer environment for yoga, Pilates, and meditation sessions.
The club also offers David Lloyd's signature classes, such as BLAZE, a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout that combines cardio, strength, and combat elements in a boutique-style studio.
Focus on Family and Relaxation
A key aspect of the David Lloyd brand is its family-friendly approach, and the Shawfair club is no exception. The facility is designed to encourage families to be active together while also providing dedicated spaces for adults to unwind.
What is Padel Tennis?
Padel is a racquet sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. It is played on an enclosed court about a third of the size of a tennis court. The inclusion of three Padel courts at the Shawfair club reflects the sport's rapidly growing popularity across the UK and Europe.
The club's swimming facilities are a major draw. A 25-meter indoor pool is available for lane swimming and aqua-aerobics, while a heated 20-meter outdoor pool allows for year-round swimming. For younger members, a dedicated indoor splash pool provides a safe and fun environment.
The Spa Retreat
For adults seeking relaxation, the club features an extensive spa area. This 'Spa Retreat' is designed as a tranquil escape, separate from the main fitness areas. Key features include:
- A large hydrotherapy pool.
- A Himalayan salt sauna.
- A citrus steam room.
- An ice experience room.
- Heated relaxation beds and an outdoor spa garden.
This focus on recovery and mental wellbeing is an integral part of the club's offering, catering to members who want to de-stress as well as exercise.
Community and Economic Impact
The opening of the David Lloyd club is a significant milestone for the Shawfair development. It acts as an 'anchor' amenity, making the area more attractive to prospective homebuyers and adding to the quality of life for existing residents.
The creation of 80 jobs provides tangible economic benefits, offering employment opportunities across various skill levels. This contributes to the local economy not just through direct employment but also by potentially increasing footfall for other local businesses.
The club also plans to engage with the local community through events and partnerships. "We look forward to becoming an active and valued part of the Shawfair community," added Stirling Stewart. "Our doors are open, and we are excited to welcome our first members."
With its comprehensive facilities and strategic location, the new David Lloyd club in Shawfair is poised to become a cornerstone of the community's social and recreational life for years to come.