David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its new £15.5 million health and wellness club in Shawfair, Midlothian, creating approximately 80 new jobs. The state-of-the-art facility is the company's 104th club in the UK and aims to provide a premium destination for fitness, relaxation, and family activities for the growing local community.
The new club, which welcomed its first members this week, is a significant investment in the Shawfair development, a new town being built on the outskirts of Edinburgh. It features a wide range of amenities, including a luxury spa, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a modern gym, and extensive facilities for children.
Key Takeaways
- A new David Lloyd Club has opened in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a £15.5 million investment.
- The facility has created approximately 80 full-time and part-time jobs in the local area.
- Key features include a luxury spa, multiple swimming pools, a 10,000 sq ft gym, and family-focused activity areas.
- This opening marks David Lloyd Leisure's 104th club in the United Kingdom and its fifth in Scotland.
New Health and Wellness Hub for Shawfair
The opening of the David Lloyd Club provides a significant new asset for the Shawfair community, which is planned to include 4,000 new homes, schools, and commercial spaces. The club is positioned as a central hub for health, wellness, and social activities for residents in Shawfair and the surrounding Midlothian area.
Construction on the site began over a year ago, transforming a vacant plot into a comprehensive leisure complex. The club's management has emphasized its goal of becoming an integral part of the local fabric, offering services that cater to individuals, couples, and families.
"We are thrilled to open our doors in Shawfair and welcome the community to this fantastic new club," said Jack Phillips, the new General Manager. "Our aim is to provide an exceptional experience where members can focus on their physical and mental wellbeing in a premium and welcoming environment."
The facility is expected to serve thousands of members, drawing from the new housing developments as well as established nearby communities. Its location offers convenient access for residents looking for high-quality fitness and leisure options close to home.
Inside the £15.5 Million Facility
The Shawfair club boasts an extensive range of modern facilities designed to cater to diverse fitness and relaxation needs. The investment has been directed towards creating a premium environment with top-of-the-line equipment and amenities.
Fitness and Training Areas
At the core of the club is a 10,000 square foot gymnasium, which is equipped with the latest cardio and strength training machines. The gym floor is zoned into different areas for various workout styles, including free weights, functional training, and cable machines. In addition to the main gym, there are several dedicated fitness studios.
- Mind & Body Studio: A space for holistic classes such as yoga, Pilates, and meditation.
- High-Intensity Studio: Designed for energetic group classes like BLAZE, a signature high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout.
- Group Cycling Studio: Featuring state-of-the-art stationary bikes for immersive cycling classes.
Personal training services are also available, with a team of qualified trainers on hand to provide customized workout plans and guidance to members.
Facility at a Glance
- Total Investment: £15.5 million
- Gym Size: 10,000 sq ft
- Pools: 25m indoor pool, 20m outdoor pool, kids' splash pool
- Spa: Features 5 different heat and ice experiences, including a Himalayan salt sauna.
- Jobs Created: Approximately 80
Spa and Swimming Facilities
A major highlight of the new club is its luxurious spa retreat. Designed for relaxation and rejuvenation, the spa is separate from the main fitness areas and offers a tranquil escape. It includes a hydrotherapy pool, a Finnish sauna, a Himalayan salt sauna, a steam room, and an ice fountain.
The club also features extensive swimming facilities:
- A 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and aqua-aerobics classes.
- A 20-meter heated outdoor pool, allowing for year-round swimming.
- An indoor splash pool specifically designed for younger children to play safely.
Swimming lessons for both adults and children are a key part of the club's offering, catering to all skill levels from beginners to advanced swimmers.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The £15.5 million investment in Shawfair represents a significant boost to the local economy. The project has not only introduced a major new business to the area but has also been a source of employment. The creation of around 80 new jobs covers a range of roles, including fitness instructors, spa therapists, food and beverage staff, and management positions.
About Shawfair Development
Shawfair is one of Scotland's most ambitious new town projects. Located south-east of Edinburgh, the masterplan includes 4,000 homes, new schools, a town centre, and commercial space. The development is designed around a new railway station on the Borders Railway line, providing direct links to the capital. The arrival of major brands like David Lloyd is seen as a key step in establishing Shawfair as a fully-fledged community.
Local officials have welcomed the opening, highlighting its positive impact on both employment and community wellbeing. The club is one of the largest commercial enterprises to open in Shawfair to date.
"This is a fantastic development for Shawfair and for Midlothian as a whole," stated a spokesperson for Midlothian Council. "The investment from David Lloyd Leisure shows great confidence in our community's growth. The new jobs and the high-quality facilities will be a tremendous asset for our residents for years to come."
The company has stated its commitment to hiring locally where possible, providing valuable employment opportunities in the growing region.
A Focus on Family and Community
Beyond the adult-focused gym and spa, the Shawfair club has been designed with families in mind. A significant portion of the facility is dedicated to children's activities, reinforcing the brand's reputation as a family-friendly destination.
The DL Kids area offers a structured program of activities for children aged 3 months to 16 years. These include sports coaching, arts and crafts, and supervised play sessions, allowing parents to use the club's facilities while their children are engaged in safe and fun activities.
The club also features a dedicated family lounge and an outdoor play area. The on-site 'Clubroom' restaurant and café provides a social space for members to eat, work, or relax, with a menu designed to cater to all tastes, including healthy options and family meals.
This emphasis on community and family is central to the David Lloyd model, aiming to create a 'third place' for members outside of home and work. The layout and programming are intended to foster a sense of belonging and encourage social interaction among members.