David Lloyd Leisure has opened a new £15 million club in Shawfair, located southeast of Edinburgh, marking a significant investment in the region's health and wellness infrastructure. The new facility, which created approximately 80 new jobs, offers a wide range of fitness, relaxation, and family-oriented amenities to the growing local community.
The Shawfair club is the company's 104th location in the United Kingdom and its fifth in Scotland. It features advanced gym equipment, multiple swimming pools, racquet sports courts, and extensive spa facilities, positioning it as a premium destination for health and leisure in the area.
Key Takeaways
- Major Investment: David Lloyd Leisure invested £15 million into the new Shawfair facility.
- Job Creation: The opening has generated around 80 full-time and part-time employment opportunities for the local community.
- Extensive Facilities: The club includes a 10,000 sq ft gym, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, a luxury spa, and family activity areas.
- Strategic Location: Situated in the developing Shawfair community, the club aims to serve new and existing residents in Midlothian and southeast Edinburgh.
A New Hub for Community Wellness
The new David Lloyd Club is strategically positioned within the Shawfair development, a major residential and commercial project planned to include 4,000 new homes. The club's opening is a key milestone for the area, providing essential wellness and social amenities for a rapidly expanding population.
Company officials state the goal was to create more than just a gym, but a comprehensive lifestyle destination. The facility is designed to cater to individuals, couples, and families, with dedicated zones for different activities and age groups.
Background on Shawfair Development
Shawfair is one of Scotland's most significant new town developments. Located just a few miles from Edinburgh's city center, it is designed to be a self-sufficient community with schools, healthcare facilities, shops, and public transport links, including its own train station. The addition of the David Lloyd Club is seen as a major enhancement to the quality of life for its residents.
State-of-the-Art Fitness and Racquet Sports
At the core of the Shawfair club is a spacious 10,000 square foot gymnasium. It is equipped with the latest technology from leading fitness brands, including a wide array of cardio machines, strength training equipment, and a large free-weights area.
The club also features several specialized fitness zones. These include a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) studio, a spin studio for cycling classes, and a Mind & Body studio for yoga, Pilates, and meditation. This variety ensures members have access to different training styles to meet their personal fitness goals.
For racquet sports enthusiasts, the facility offers:
- Three indoor tennis courts with professional coaching available.
- Three badminton courts.
- Two squash courts.
Comprehensive Spa and Swimming Facilities
A significant portion of the £15 million investment was allocated to the club's swimming and spa areas, branded as the 'Spa Retreat'. This section is designed to provide a premium relaxation experience for adult members.
The Spa Retreat at David Lloyd Shawfair includes a hydrotherapy pool, a Himalayan salt sauna, a steam room, an ice fountain, and heated relaxation beds, making it one of the most extensive spa facilities in the region.
The club's swimming facilities are equally impressive. It boasts a 25-meter indoor lap pool for serious swimmers and a separate, shallower indoor pool for families and swimming lessons. During warmer months, members can use the 20-meter heated outdoor pool, which is surrounded by a sun terrace and loungers.
"Our vision for Shawfair was to create a first-class destination that supports the health and wellbeing of the entire community," said a spokesperson for David Lloyd Leisure. "From the advanced gym equipment to the tranquil Spa Retreat, every detail has been carefully considered to offer an exceptional member experience."
Family-Friendly Features and Social Spaces
David Lloyd Clubs have built a reputation for being family-friendly, and the Shawfair location continues this tradition. The club includes a dedicated 'DL Kids' area offering a range of activities, classes, and holiday clubs for children aged 3 months to 16 years.
This allows parents to use the gym or spa facilities while their children are supervised in a safe and engaging environment. There is also a soft-play area for younger children and an outdoor playground.
The Clubroom: A Social and Co-working Space
Another key feature is the Clubroom, a large, open-plan café, bar, and restaurant area. This space serves as the social heart of the club, where members can relax, eat, or socialize after a workout.
Recognizing the trend of remote working, the Clubroom also includes a dedicated business zone. This area offers high-speed Wi-Fi, charging points, and comfortable seating, allowing members to use the club as a flexible workspace. This integration of work, fitness, and social life is a central part of the modern David Lloyd model.
Employment Impact: The new club has created approximately 80 permanent jobs, including roles for fitness trainers, spa therapists, lifeguards, children's activity leaders, and hospitality staff, contributing directly to the local Midlothian economy.
Economic and Community Impact
The establishment of the David Lloyd Club in Shawfair represents a significant private investment in the local economy. Beyond the initial construction and the 80 jobs created, the facility is expected to attract further business and enhance the appeal of the area for prospective homebuyers.
Local officials have welcomed the investment, noting that high-quality leisure facilities are crucial for building sustainable and attractive communities. The club is expected to become a central hub for residents, promoting active lifestyles and social interaction.
The company has also indicated plans for community engagement, including partnerships with local schools and sports organizations. This approach aims to integrate the club into the fabric of Shawfair and the wider Midlothian area, ensuring its benefits extend beyond its membership base.
