David Lloyd Clubs has announced the upcoming opening of its newest facility in Shawfair, Midlothian, representing a £15.5 million investment in the local community. The new club, set to open next month, will create approximately 80 new full-time and part-time jobs and provide a comprehensive range of health, wellness, and leisure services to the rapidly growing region.
Key Takeaways
- A new David Lloyd Club is opening in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a £15.5 million investment.
- The facility will create around 80 new jobs in the local area.
- Features include a 10,000 sq ft gym, swimming pools, a spa, tennis courts, and dedicated family areas.
- The club is part of the wider development of the Shawfair town centre, a major residential and commercial project.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The new David Lloyd Shawfair is a significant development for the area, located between the City of Edinburgh and Midlothian. The £15.5 million project underscores the company's commitment to expanding its presence in Scotland and providing high-quality wellness facilities. According to company statements, the club aims to be a premium destination for families and individuals focused on health and fitness.
Job creation is a central component of the club's local impact. The company has confirmed that it will hire for 80 positions, spanning roles from fitness coaching and hospitality to management and operations. This provides a notable boost to local employment as the Shawfair community continues to expand.
Shawfair Community Growth
Shawfair is one of Scotland's most significant new town developments. The masterplan includes the construction of 4,000 new homes, schools, and a commercial town centre. The arrival of a major brand like David Lloyd is seen as a key step in establishing the area as a fully-serviced community.
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Offerings
The Shawfair club is designed to cater to a wide range of fitness and leisure interests. The facility is equipped with modern equipment and purpose-built spaces to deliver David Lloyd's signature member experience.
Advanced Fitness and Training Spaces
At the heart of the club is a 10,000 square foot gymnasium, which features the latest fitness equipment. The space is divided into specialized zones for cardio, strength training, and functional fitness. Members will have access to a team of personal trainers and fitness experts to guide their wellness journeys.
The club also includes several group exercise studios. These will host a variety of signature classes, including:
- Blaze: A high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout combining cardio, strength, and combat elements.
- Rhythm: An indoor cycling class focused on high-energy, music-driven workouts.
- IGN1TE: A mixed martial arts-inspired cardio and strength class.
The UK health and fitness club market is valued at over £5 billion, with a growing demand for premium, family-oriented facilities that combine fitness with social and relaxation spaces.
Aquatics and Spa Facilities
A key attraction of the new club is its extensive aquatics area. This includes a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons, alongside a shallower, warmer family pool. An outdoor pool will also be available, providing a resort-like experience during warmer months.
For relaxation and recovery, the club features a luxurious spa. The spa includes a hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room, and heated relaxation beds. These facilities are designed to provide members with a dedicated space for unwinding and mental well-being.
"Our goal is to create more than just a gym; we want to build a community where families can spend quality time together while focusing on their health," said a spokesperson for David Lloyd Clubs. "The Shawfair location is perfectly positioned to serve a growing and active population."
Racquet Sports and Family Services
In line with the brand's heritage, the Shawfair club offers excellent racquet sports facilities. It includes several indoor and outdoor tennis courts, as well as courts for Padel, a rapidly growing sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. Professional coaching will be available for all ages and skill levels.
Families are a core focus for the new club. A dedicated DL Kids facility will offer a range of activities, classes, and holiday clubs for children. The club also features a large 'Clubroom' with an indoor and outdoor terrace, serving as a social hub for members to eat, work, and socialize.
Strategic Location and Economic Impact
The selection of Shawfair as the location for the new club was a strategic decision. The area is undergoing significant residential and commercial development, with excellent transport links, including its own railway station on the Borders Railway line. The club is positioned to become an anchor amenity for the thousands of new residents moving into the area.
Local officials have welcomed the investment. A representative from the Midlothian Council noted that the development aligns with their goals of promoting healthy lifestyles and attracting high-quality businesses to the region. The club is expected to not only serve local residents but also draw members from surrounding areas, further boosting the local economy.
The Rise of Padel Tennis
Padel is one of the world's fastest-growing sports. It is played in doubles on an enclosed court about a third of the size of a tennis court. Its simplicity and social nature have made it extremely popular, and its inclusion in new clubs like David Lloyd Shawfair reflects this growing demand.
The construction phase has already contributed to the local economy through the use of local contractors and suppliers. The ongoing operation of the club will continue this trend, creating a sustainable economic benefit for Shawfair and the wider Midlothian region. The opening represents a milestone in the development of the new town, signaling its transition from a housing development into a vibrant, fully-equipped community.