Therme Manchester construction progresses as first pool installation approaches
Construction of the £500m Therme Manchester resort is progressing at TraffordCity, with cranes now on site and the foundations of its three main experience zones taking shape.
The 28-acre development is being built by Sir Robert McAlpine and is scheduled to open in 2029.
A key milestone is due next week, when installation of the first main pool is set to begin in the northern area of the resort’s Relax zone.
Work is expected to take approximately eight weeks, during which the pool’s water filtration system will be installed and incorporated into the concrete pool base pour.
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Construction progress has made the scale and layout of the 680,000 sq ft complex increasingly visible, with its three main areas, Play, Restore and Relax, now mapped out on site.
Therme Manchester design updated following contractor appointment
New CGI images show how the resort’s design is developing, including its indoor and outdoor spaces, a 53,000 sq ft wellbeing garden and a public plaza intended to improve connections with the Bridgewater Canal.
In addition to this, Design changes have also been made following the appointment of Sir Robert McAlpine, with the stated aims of improving construction efficiency, the visitor experience and links with public transport, including the Metrolink.
Also, two proposed multi-storey car parks have been removed to open up views across the resort. Parking will instead be redistributed across the site, providing around 1,400 spaces.
Changes to the entrance and internal and external spaces are also intended to improve operational efficiency and manage energy use.
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A minor Section 73 planning application has recently been submitted, covering changes including the revised parking arrangements. The overall scale of the development remains unchanged following a reduction in size made in 2024.
Professor David Russell, CEO of Therme UK, said: “We have taken the opportunity to refine the design, improve how traffic and parking are managed and create a more welcoming environment for everyone arriving at the resort.
“We are creating an even better experience for visitors while supporting more efficient and sustainable operations.”
10 pools and 18 slides planned for 2029 opening
The resort will bring together water-based attractions, thermal bathing, wellbeing facilities and green spaces across three zones.
Play will provide water-based attractions for families and visitors of all ages, while Restore will focus on thermal bathing and restorative experiences. Relax will offer spaces for relaxation and wellbeing, connecting visitors with water, warmth and nature.
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Plans include 10 pools, 18 water slides and 20 saunas and steam rooms, alongside extensive green spaces and wellbeing facilities.
Therme Manchester is expected to attract around two million visitors a year when it opens in 2029, creating a major leisure destination in the north west.
