David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its new £15.5 million health, spa, and racquets club in Shawfair Park, Midlothian. The new facility, which is the company's third in Scotland, is expected to create approximately 100 new full-time and part-time jobs, providing a significant boost to the local economy.
The state-of-the-art club spans over 9,900 square meters and offers a wide range of fitness and wellness amenities for individuals and families. Its opening marks a major development for the growing Shawfair community, situated just south-east of Edinburgh.
Key Takeaways
- Major Investment: The new club represents a £15.5 million investment in the Midlothian region.
- Job Creation: Approximately 100 new jobs have been created, ranging from management to hospitality and fitness roles.
- Extensive Facilities: The site includes a 100+ station gym, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a luxury spa, and extensive racquets courts.
- Strategic Location: Located in Shawfair Park, the club serves the expanding communities of Shawfair, Dalkeith, and the wider Midlothian area.
A New Era for Health and Wellness in Midlothian
The opening of the David Lloyd Club in Shawfair introduces a premium destination for health and fitness in the region. The significant financial investment underscores the company's confidence in the area's growth and the local demand for high-quality leisure facilities. This development is one of the largest of its kind in Scotland in recent years.
Construction of the expansive facility was a major undertaking, designed to meet the highest standards of modern fitness clubs. The club aims to provide a comprehensive wellness experience, combining advanced gym equipment with spa relaxation and family-friendly activities, all under one roof.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The creation of around 100 new jobs is a key benefit for the local community. These positions cover a wide spectrum of roles, including fitness trainers, spa therapists, tennis coaches, management staff, and food and beverage team members. This influx of employment opportunities contributes directly to the economic vitality of Midlothian.
Jack Guthrie, the General Manager for the new Shawfair club, stated, "We are thrilled to open our doors and welcome the Shawfair community. Our goal is to provide more than just a gym; we want to create a welcoming environment where families and individuals can spend quality time focusing on their health and wellbeing. The creation of 100 jobs is something we are incredibly proud of."
Local officials have welcomed the investment, noting its positive impact on both employment and public health infrastructure. The facility is expected to attract members from across the region, further establishing Shawfair as a key residential and commercial hub.
The Growing Community of Shawfair
Shawfair is a new town currently under development on the outskirts of Edinburgh. It is one of Scotland's most significant urban expansion projects, planned to include 4,000 new homes, schools, and commercial spaces. The arrival of a major brand like David Lloyd Clubs is seen as a key milestone in establishing the town's community infrastructure.
Inside the State-of-the-Art Facility
The Shawfair club is designed to cater to a diverse range of fitness levels and interests. The facilities are spread across a large, modern building with dedicated zones for different activities, ensuring a premium experience for all members.
The centerpiece of the fitness area is the expansive gymnasium, which features over 100 pieces of the latest equipment. This includes advanced cardio machines, a spacious free weights area, and dedicated functional training zones like Synrgy360.
Key Features and Amenities
Members have access to an extensive list of facilities designed for fitness, relaxation, and socializing. The club's offerings include:
- Swimming Pools: A 25-meter indoor pool for lane swimming and a heated 20-meter outdoor pool, allowing for year-round use.
- Racquet Sports: Four indoor tennis courts and three outdoor courts, along with facilities for badminton and squash.
- Group Exercise Studios: Three dedicated studios for a variety of classes, including high-energy workouts like BLAZE, mind-body sessions, and indoor cycling.
- Luxury Spa: The spa area includes a hydro pool, sauna, steam room, and heated beds, providing a tranquil space for members to relax and recover.
Facility by the Numbers
- Total Area: 9,900 square meters
- Gym Equipment: 100+ stations
- Swimming Pools: 2 (25m indoor, 20m outdoor)
- Tennis Courts: 7 (4 indoor, 3 outdoor)
- Group Classes: Over 100 classes offered weekly
A Focus on Family and Community
A core part of the David Lloyd Clubs model is its emphasis on family-friendly activities. The Shawfair location has been specifically designed to cater to members of all ages, making it a destination for the entire family.
The club includes dedicated DL Kids facilities, offering a range of activities and coaching for children. A soft-play area and an outdoor playground provide safe and engaging spaces for younger children. The club also runs a comprehensive swimming and tennis coaching program for kids.
The Clubroom and Social Spaces
Beyond fitness, the club is designed to be a social hub. The central 'Clubroom' features a restaurant and café with both indoor and outdoor terrace seating. This area serves as a place for members to socialize, work, or relax with a meal after a workout. The menu offers a range of healthy and family-friendly options.
The business lounge provides a dedicated space for members who wish to work remotely, equipped with workstations and high-speed Wi-Fi. This integration of work, fitness, and social life reflects a modern approach to the role of a community club.
"Our vision for Shawfair was to build a club that integrates seamlessly into the lives of our members," added Guthrie. "Whether it's a family swim on a weekend, a productive work session in our business lounge, or a challenging BLAZE class, we have something for everyone. We believe this club will become a vital part of the local community."
Integration into the Shawfair Masterplan
The David Lloyd Club is a cornerstone of the commercial and leisure component of the Shawfair masterplan. Its location within Shawfair Park, adjacent to existing transport links including the Shawfair railway station, makes it highly accessible to residents of the new town and surrounding areas.
The club's design incorporates sustainable features and landscaping that aligns with the green principles of the wider Shawfair development. Developers hope the presence of such a high-caliber facility will attract further investment and residents to the area.
The opening of the club is expected to have a ripple effect, encouraging other businesses to establish themselves in Shawfair and supporting the development of a vibrant, self-contained community. It sets a high standard for the quality of amenities that will be available to the thousands of new residents set to move into the area over the next decade.