Work has begun on Therme Manchester, the water and wellness resort set to create over a thousand jobs being built at Trafford Park.
Therme Manchester has officially marked the start of construction on what is set to become the UK’s largest wellbeing resort. Enabling groundworks were completed in late 2024, with the main construction phase is due to begin at the end of this month.
Completion of the £450 million development is scheduled by end 2028, with an official opening date to be confirmed nearer the time.
The resort is expected to generate about 2,500 direct construction jobs (peaking at around 1,200 onsite), and to employ 650 staff once operational. Therme also plans long-term partnerships with local businesses, charities and community organisations. The organisation has already supported initiatives across Manchester, including the Marathon, NHS programmes and cultural events, with further commitments through the project’s lifetime.
Sustainability is central to the vision. Therme says that per guest, its carbon footprint will be significantly lower than for overseas travel or many alternative spa experiences. The project aims to align with Manchester’s target of being carbon net zero by 2038. Wherever possible, materials will be sourced locally, and construction will use innovative methods such as air-source heat pumps and on-site 3D printing of components to reduce waste and emissions.
The resort will combine architecture and technology with nature, water and wellbeing. Features include state-of-the-art swimming and thermal bathing areas, spa and fitness zones, immersive digital art, sustainable gardens, and a variety of restaurants and cafés. The aim is to create a year-round destination that supports health, happiness and social connection, and is accessible to all.
Professor David Russell, Therme UK CEO, said: “Today marks the official beginning of a once-in-a-generation project for Manchester and the North West. Therme Manchester will be a place for everyone – a unique destination where wellbeing, sustainability, art and culture come together. Our vision is to make a lasting positive impact: creating jobs, supporting communities, and helping people live healthier, happier lives for years to come.”
James Whittaker, Managing Director of Peel Waters, commented: “We’re thrilled to have reached this pivotal moment as work begins on site at Therme Manchester. It marks the culmination of years of close collaboration between Peel Waters and Therme Group, an extraordinary partnership built on shared values and wanting to deliver the very best for our community. From our very first meeting, we knew Therme’s vision would be transformational … Therme Manchester will be a true gamechanger not just for TraffordCity, but for Greater Manchester and the North.”
Neil Martin, Chief Executive at Sir Robert McAlpine, which is the Construction Manager, said the project aligns with its commitment to sustainability, technical excellence, and making a meaningful difference to communities. Trafford Council’s spokesperson described the scheme as “one-in-a-lifetime,” expecting it to draw millions of visitors annually, regenerate a vacant brownfield site, and provide significant employment and wellbeing benefits to the borough.
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