Therme Manchester, the UK’s future urban wellbeing resort, has officially begun its construction phase.
Marked with a celebration dubbed “Beyond Groundbreaking”, the event marks the start of a major building project that will become one of the most significant developments in the North in years.
The resort promises to be a one-of-a-kind destination for Greater Manchester. It will feature Europe’s largest thermal pool complex, lush botanical gardens, and immersive art. The family-friendly offerings include over 25 waterslides, a wave pool, and the UK’s largest sauna area.
The £450 million project, which saw enabling groundworks completed last year, will see construction begin at the end of this month. Completion is scheduled for late 2028, with an official opening date to be announced closer to the time.
The project is expected to bring a significant boost to the local economy, creating around 2,500 construction jobs and a further 650 jobs to operate the resort. Therme Manchester has also committed to long-term partnerships with local businesses, charities, and community groups, building on its existing support for initiatives like the Manchester Marathon and local NHS programs.
Therme Manchester is a development being undertaken in partnership with Peel Waters and Trafford Council.
James Whittaker, managing director of Peel Waters said: “We have been on a long partnership journey with Therme Group. Since our first meeting and experiencing Therme’s world-leading concept, Peel Waters have worked hand in glove with Therme Group to bring this phenomenal experience to TraffordCity, Manchester. Following on from the preparation of the site and carrying out the demolition works of the former ‘EventCity’, we are now extremely pleased to see the appointment of Sir Robert McAlpine in readiness for delivering this truly transformational, unique wellness resort, which will be a complete game-changer for health, leisure and the visitor economy in the North.
Cllr Tom Ross, leader of Trafford Council, said: “The Therme project is fantastic news for Trafford, and I am delighted it is being built in our borough. The resort will attract millions of visitors each year to boost our economy and will provide hundreds of construction jobs and full-time jobs. It supports several of our key commitments by helping provide a thriving economy, improving health and wellbeing and regenerating a vacant brownfield site in a sustainable location. It can also be reached by public transport, on foot, and by bicycle, so supports our commitments to active travel and sustainability.”
A new appointment
Therme Manchester, has taken a major step forward by appointing Sir Robert McAlpine to manage the construction of its flagship project at TraffordCity. This announcement follows the formation of a significant new venture, Therme Horizon, a partnership between Therme Group and CVC, one of the world’s leading investment firms. The new venture is valued at over €1 billion, providing a major financial boost for the project.
Sir Robert McAlpine, which has a track record of delivering complex, iconic projects, was chosen for its shared values of community and sustainability.
Therme UK CEO Prof David Russell said: “We are delighted to appoint Sir Robert McAlpine to support the management of construction for Therme Manchester. Their unrivalled expertise in delivering large-scale, complex projects, along with a shared commitment to excellence, community and sustainability, makes them the ideal team to bring Therme Manchester to life. We look forward to working together to deliver a project that will have a lasting positive impact on Greater Manchester and beyond.”
Neil Martin, chief executive at Sir Robert McAlpine, added:
“It is a privilege to be appointed to help deliver such a visionary and innovative project. Therme Manchester represents a major investment in wellbeing, sustainability, and community infrastructure, and we are excited to play a part in shaping its future.”
Therme Manchester will be integrated into the local transportation network, with strong connections to Greater Manchester’s Bee Network, Metrolink, and a new network of enhanced cycle and walkways. A multi-storey car park is also part of the plan. Further updates on the construction progress are expected in the coming months.
The county of Lancashire is currently a hive for glass-fronted projects, with the Eden Project having plans for a large development further north at Morecambe Bay.
Images: Therme Group/Peel Waters
