David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened a new £15.5 million luxury health, spa, and racquets facility in Shawfair, Midlothian. The development, which is the company's first new club to open in the UK in 2024, has created 70 new full-time and part-time jobs in the local area.
Situated southeast of Edinburgh, the new club is the first of its kind in the Lothians region and aims to provide a premium wellness destination for individuals and families. The facility spans a significant area and integrates a wide range of modern fitness and relaxation amenities.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has launched a new £15.5 million facility in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The project has generated 70 new jobs for the local community.
- It is the first new David Lloyd Club to open in the United Kingdom this year.
- Key features include extensive fitness areas, indoor and outdoor pools, a large spa, and dedicated Padel tennis courts.
A Significant Investment in Local Wellness
The opening of the Shawfair club represents a major investment in the Midlothian region's leisure infrastructure. The £15.5 million project underscores David Lloyd Leisure's commitment to expanding its footprint and offering high-end wellness services.
This new location is strategically positioned within the Shawfair masterplan, a long-term development initiative designed to create a new town complete with housing, schools, and community facilities. The club is expected to serve as a central hub for residents of the growing community.
Project by the Numbers
- Total Investment: £15.5 million
- Jobs Created: 70 (full-time and part-time)
- Gym Size: Over 110 workout stations
- Swimming Pools: Two 20-meter pools (indoor and outdoor)
- Tennis Courts: 4 championship-standard courts
- Padel Courts: 3 canopy-covered courts
Jack Phillips, the General Manager of David Lloyd Shawfair, expressed enthusiasm for the launch. He highlighted the club's role in providing a premium experience for members of all ages.
"Our new club is a fantastic addition to the local area, creating an outstanding destination for families and individuals to prioritise their health and wellness," Phillips stated.
The creation of 70 jobs is a notable economic benefit for the region. These roles span various departments, including fitness instruction, spa therapy, hospitality, and club management, contributing directly to local employment.
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Offerings
The Shawfair club is designed to cater to a wide range of fitness and leisure preferences. The facilities are spread across a large footprint, incorporating both indoor and outdoor spaces to provide a comprehensive member experience.
Fitness and Group Exercise
At the core of the club is a state-of-the-art gym equipped with more than 110 stations. This includes the latest cardio and strength training equipment. The facility also features four dedicated group exercise studios designed for specific class types.
These studios include:
- A High Energy Studio for intense workout classes.
- A Mind & Body Studio for yoga, Pilates, and meditation.
- A Cyclone Studio for immersive group cycling experiences.
This variety allows the club to offer a diverse timetable of classes, accommodating different fitness levels and interests. According to the company, the design focuses on providing members with both motivation and choice in their workout routines.
Racquet Sports and Swimming
A major focus of the new club is its extensive racquet sports facilities. It includes four championship-standard tennis courts housed under an inflatable dome, allowing for year-round play regardless of the weather.
The Rise of Padel Tennis
Padel, a sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, is one of the fastest-growing racquet sports in the world. Its smaller court and simpler rules make it highly accessible for beginners, while still offering a fast-paced game for experienced players. The inclusion of three dedicated Padel courts at the Shawfair club reflects this growing demand.
In addition to traditional tennis, the club features three canopy-covered Padel courts. Padel has seen a surge in popularity across the UK, and this investment positions the Shawfair club as a key destination for enthusiasts of the sport in Scotland.
The aquatic facilities are equally impressive. Members have access to a 20-meter indoor heated swimming pool and a 20-meter outdoor heated pool. The outdoor area is complemented by a patio, providing a resort-like atmosphere for relaxation during warmer months.
Spa and Family-Oriented Amenities
Beyond fitness, the David Lloyd Shawfair club places a strong emphasis on relaxation and family-friendly services. The integrated Spa Retreat is a significant component of the luxury offering.
The spa includes five distinct experience rooms:
- A traditional Finnish sauna
- A citrus steam room
- An ice cave for therapeutic cooling
- A feature shower
- A hydrotherapy pool
This comprehensive spa is designed to be a sanctuary for members to unwind and recover. It also features heated beds and an exclusive outdoor spa garden for quiet relaxation.
For families, the club offers a dedicated Clubroom that serves as a social space. It includes a business area for remote working, a family zone, and a restaurant offering a full menu. This design ensures the club can be used for work, socialising, and family time.
"We are excited to welcome our first members and to build a vibrant community within the club," said Jack Phillips.
Furthermore, the club includes extensive facilities for children. A dedicated nursery and kids' play areas are available, supporting parents who wish to use the gym or spa. This all-encompassing approach is central to the David Lloyd brand's appeal to the family market.
Strategic Expansion for David Lloyd Leisure
The opening of the Shawfair club is part of a broader strategy of investment and expansion by David Lloyd Leisure. As the first new club to open in the UK this year, it sets a benchmark for the company's future projects.
Stéphane Ruttan, CEO of David Lloyd Leisure, commented on the significance of the new location. He noted the company's continuous efforts to innovate and enhance the member experience across its portfolio.
The choice of Shawfair is indicative of a strategy that targets growing residential areas with demand for premium leisure facilities. By integrating into a new town development, David Lloyd aims to become an essential part of the community's fabric from the outset.
The club's comprehensive offerings, from high-tech fitness to luxurious spa facilities and family services, position it as more than just a gym. It is marketed as a complete lifestyle destination, a concept that has proven successful for the brand across Europe.
