David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest and largest health, wellness, and racquets club in Shawfair, Midlothian. The £15.5 million facility is a significant addition to the area, creating approximately 100 new jobs and providing extensive amenities to the growing community.
The new club is located near the Shawfair railway station and represents a major investment in the region's leisure infrastructure. It is designed to serve as a community hub for families and individuals, offering a wide range of fitness and relaxation options.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has launched a new £15.5 million facility in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The project has generated around 100 permanent jobs in the local area.
- The club features a 10,000 sq ft gym, multiple pools, racquets courts, and a luxury spa.
- It is positioned as a central component of the Shawfair town centre development, which plans for 4,000 new homes.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The Shawfair club is the 104th location for David Lloyd Clubs in the UK and its third in Scotland. The development signals the company's confidence in the region's growth and its commitment to providing premium wellness facilities outside of major city centers.
Construction of the extensive facility was a significant undertaking. According to company statements, the goal was to create a comprehensive destination for health and leisure that caters to all age groups. The investment reflects a growing demand for high-quality, family-oriented wellness spaces.
"We are thrilled to open our newest club in Shawfair. This is a first-class facility that sets a new standard for health and wellness in the region. Our aim is to create a welcoming space where families can spend quality time together," said a spokesperson for David Lloyd Clubs.
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Amenities
The club's centerpiece is its 10,000 square foot gymnasium. It is equipped with advanced fitness technology, including a specialized cardio zone, weightlifting areas, and functional training spaces. This makes it one of the largest and most modern gyms in the area.
Beyond the gym, the club offers an extensive range of amenities designed for both fitness and relaxation. These include:
- Indoor and Outdoor Swimming Pools: A 25-meter indoor pool for lane swimming and a heated 20-meter outdoor pool for year-round use.
- Racquet Sports: Multiple indoor and outdoor tennis courts, as well as courts for squash and the increasingly popular sport of padel.
- Group Exercise Studios: Four dedicated studios host over 100 classes per week, including yoga, Pilates, spinning, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
- Luxury Spa: The spa area includes a hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room, and heated relaxation beds, providing a dedicated zone for recovery and tranquility.
Shawfair Club by the Numbers
- Investment: £15.5 million
- Jobs Created: Approximately 100
- Gym Size: 10,000 sq ft
- Indoor Pool: 25 meters
- Outdoor Pool: 20 meters
- Weekly Classes: Over 100
Strategic Role in Shawfair's Development
The opening of the David Lloyd Club is a cornerstone of the wider Shawfair development plan. Shawfair is a new town being built on the outskirts of Edinburgh, with plans for 4,000 new homes, schools, and a modern town centre.
The club is strategically located to serve as a primary leisure amenity for the thousands of new residents expected to move into the area over the next decade. Its proximity to the local railway station enhances its accessibility for people from surrounding communities as well.
About the Shawfair Development
Shawfair is one of Southeast Scotland's most ambitious new town projects. Managed by Shawfair LLP, the development aims to create a sustainable community with a mix of housing, commercial spaces, and public amenities. The inclusion of the David Lloyd Club is intended to attract new residents and establish a high quality of life from the outset.
Economic and Social Impact
The creation of 100 permanent jobs is a significant economic boost for Midlothian. Roles at the club range from fitness instructors and spa therapists to management and hospitality staff. The project also supported numerous construction jobs during its development phase.
Local officials have welcomed the investment. They see it as a vote of confidence in the economic future of the region and a valuable asset for community health. The facility is expected to encourage active lifestyles and provide a positive social hub for families.
According to Nick Waugh, a director at Shawfair LLP, the club's opening marks a major milestone for the town. "Having a premium brand like David Lloyd here is a huge asset for our community. It provides world-class facilities right on the doorstep for our residents and the wider public," he stated.
Designed for Family and Community
A key focus of the Shawfair club is its family-friendly environment. The design includes dedicated spaces and programs for children, making it an attractive destination for parents.
Kids' Facilities and Programs
The club features a DL Kids area with activities scheduled around the main group exercise timetable. This allows parents to work out while their children are engaged in supervised play and sports. Programs are available for children of all ages, from toddlers to teenagers.
Additionally, the club offers structured coaching for swimming and tennis, providing pathways for children to develop athletic skills. This comprehensive approach ensures that the facility serves every member of the family.
The Clubroom and Social Spaces
At the heart of the facility is the Clubroom, a large social space with an indoor and outdoor terrace. It functions as a café, restaurant, and workspace, offering a place for members to socialize, work remotely, or relax after a workout.
This space is designed to foster a sense of community among members, transforming the club from just a gym into a central part of their daily lives. The inclusion of an adults-only area provides a quiet space for those seeking a more peaceful environment.
The opening of the David Lloyd Club in Shawfair is more than just a new gym; it is an integral part of a new town's foundation, promising to enhance the health, wellness, and social fabric of the community for years to come.