David Lloyd Leisure has expanded its UK presence with the opening of a new £13.5 million luxury health and wellness club in Shawfair, Midlothian. The facility, located just south of Edinburgh, is the company's 103rd club in the UK and has created approximately 80 new local jobs.
The state-of-the-art club aims to provide comprehensive fitness, relaxation, and family-oriented services to the growing community. It features extensive facilities, including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a high-tech gym, multiple group exercise studios, and Scotland's first-ever David Lloyd Padel courts.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure invested £13.5 million in a new luxury club in Shawfair, Scotland.
- The new facility created around 80 jobs in the Midlothian area.
- Features include a 100+ station gym, indoor and outdoor pools, a luxury spa, and Padel tennis courts.
- The club is the 103rd David Lloyd location in the UK and the first in the Edinburgh area for over two decades.
A Major Investment in Scottish Wellness
The development of the Shawfair club represents a significant investment in the health and leisure sector for the region. The £13.5 million project underscores David Lloyd's confidence in the growing demand for premium wellness facilities outside of major city centers.
Situated within the Shawfair masterplan development, the club is positioned to serve a rapidly expanding residential area. The Shawfair development itself is one of Scotland's most significant urban expansion projects, planned to include 4,000 new homes, schools, and community spaces.
According to the company, the club's opening marks its first new location in the Edinburgh area in over 20 years, signaling a strategic move to cater to new communities. The facility is designed to be a central hub for fitness, relaxation, and social activities for individuals and families alike.
Job Creation and Local Economic Impact
A key outcome of this investment is the creation of approximately 80 new full-time and part-time jobs. These roles span various departments, including fitness instruction, hospitality, club management, and maintenance, providing a boost to the local Midlothian economy.
The recruitment drive focused on hiring from the local community, ensuring that the economic benefits of the new club are felt directly in the surrounding area. This approach aligns with the broader goals of the Shawfair development to build a sustainable and integrated community.
Facility at a Glance
- Total Investment: £13.5 Million
- Jobs Created: ~80
- Gym Size: Over 100 stations
- Indoor Pool: 20 metres
- Outdoor Pool: 25 metres
- Total Clubs in UK: 103
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Services
The Shawfair club offers a wide range of modern amenities designed to cater to diverse fitness and wellness needs. The facilities are spread across a spacious, purpose-built complex, emphasizing both high-performance training and relaxation.
Jack Phillips, the General Manager of the new club, highlighted the ambition for the facility.
"We are thrilled to open the doors to what we believe will be one of the country's finest health and wellness facilities. Our team is dedicated to providing an exceptional experience for our members."
Core Fitness and Training Areas
The centerpiece of the club is its expansive gym, equipped with over 100 stations featuring the latest fitness technology. This includes a variety of cardio machines, resistance training equipment, and a large free-weights area. The layout is designed to accommodate all fitness levels, from beginners to experienced athletes.
In addition to the main gym floor, the club boasts several specialized group exercise studios:
- BLAZE Studio: A high-intensity interval training (HIIT) studio combining cardio, strength, and combat exercises.
- IGN1TE Studio: Another high-energy class format focused on mixed martial arts-inspired workouts.
- SPIRIT Studio: A holistic space dedicated to yoga, Pilates, and meditation, offering a calm environment for mind-body wellness.
- Cyclone Studio: A state-of-the-art indoor cycling studio with immersive audio and visual effects.
Swimming and Spa Facilities
A major attraction is the club's extensive aquatic and spa area. Members have access to both a 20-metre indoor swimming pool and a 25-metre heated outdoor pool, allowing for year-round swimming regardless of the weather.
The spa, branded as the 'Spa Retreat,' is designed as a luxury sanctuary. It includes a hydro pool, multiple saunas, a steam room, and heated relaxation beds. This area is intended to provide members with a premium space for recovery and relaxation after their workouts.
The Rise of Padel Tennis
Padel tennis is a racket sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. It is played on an enclosed court about one-third the size of a tennis court. Its popularity has surged globally, particularly in Europe and Latin America, due to its social nature and ease of learning compared to traditional tennis. The inclusion of Padel courts at the Shawfair club reflects this growing trend in the UK sports and leisure market.
Focus on Racket Sports and Family Activities
David Lloyd Clubs have a strong heritage in racket sports, and the Shawfair location continues this tradition. The club features several indoor and outdoor tennis courts, offering coaching and social play for all ages and abilities.
A notable addition is the introduction of Padel tennis courts. This is the first David Lloyd club in Scotland to feature the sport, which is one of the fastest-growing racket sports in the world. The inclusion of Padel is a strategic move to attract a new demographic of sports enthusiasts.
A Hub for Families and Professionals
The club is not solely focused on fitness. It incorporates facilities designed to make it a destination for the entire family. A dedicated DL Kids area provides activities and programs for children, complemented by an outdoor playground.
For adults seeking a space to work or socialize, the club includes a large 'Clubroom.' This area functions as a café, bar, and restaurant, serving a full menu throughout the day. It also features a dedicated business hub with workstations and Wi-Fi, catering to the increasing number of people working remotely.
This multi-purpose design aims to integrate the club into the daily lives of its members, serving as a 'third space' beyond home and the office. It provides a community-focused environment where members can exercise, relax, work, and socialize.
