Therme Manchester, the UK’s first city-based wellbeing resort, received approval from Trafford Council’s planning committee for its new design of its landmark wellbeing resort at TraffordCity last autumn, however work is now underway. A refined design update was submitted earlier this year to Trafford Council as a ‘section 73’ update to the existing planning permission, ahead of ground works beginning, which has now been approved.
The approval coincides with the start of enabling work on site, which includes the demolition of the pre-existing concrete slabs that will be conserved and reused in construction. Site hoarding, utilities works and offices have been established. A 200 metre bore hole has been drilled to confirm the site’s natural thermal capacity, a key element of creating a sustainable and energy-efficient resort.
According to a statement, the new designs “focus on sustainability, visitor experience, and architectural excellence” and groundworks will begin in 2025. The statement continued, saying: “Therme’s design will include energy-efficient systems such as heat pumps and a reduced use of glass, steel and concrete. Advanced design efficiencies will lead to a significant reduction in the CO2 footprint and water usage.
“The accessibility and visitor arrival at the south entrance of Therme Manchester have been enhanced, with the addition of a managed drop-off on Phoenix Way, offering a welcoming and inclusive entry point for all visitors. Expanded public realm areas have been added to create greater tranquillity across the 28-acre resort.”
Back in June 2023, Therme Manchester implemented a series of design improvements, providing better access for the large number of expected visitors. The updated scheme featured a pavilion-style concept “immersed and enveloped in a natural landscape”. Approved in September 2023, the £250m construction was on track to begin at the end of last year with works scheduled to take around 24 months, however with delays an opening date might not be until 2027.
Professor David Russell, CEO of Therme Group UK, commented: “We are delighted to have received approval for our Section 73 planning amendment, driving the realisation of our vision for Therme Manchester. This development will stand as a beacon of wellbeing and innovation, contributing to the cultural and social fabric of Greater Manchester. Local contractors are delivering the initial works, and we will remain committed to contributing significantly to the community and the local economy.”
The opening date is yet to be announced. Professor David Russell added: “Our Pedigree is to focus on design detail and technical delivery schedules traditionally resulting in swift 24-to-30-month construction timelines, Therme Manchester is a complex large-scale project which is progressing well, so it is too early to announce a precise opening date.”
Three entrances will welcome guests arriving from all directions and a new, landscaped green boulevard will receive people travelling by car to Therme Manchester and the nearby Trafford Palazzo. Greater access will also be provided for cyclists and those arriving on foot via public transport.
The concept for the project has moved from being principally a single building (with zones) and undulating roof line, to a more pavilion-style concept – with separate, connected structures which are immersed and enveloped in a natural landscape. New on-site parking arrangements are also concealed in nature, the roof providing an outdoor customer terrace with views through to the canal.
The new connection to the Bridgewater Canal enhancing the link from the resort to Manchester city centre remains part of design plans, allowing better access for pedestrians and cyclists. At the centre of the new design is an urban wellbeing garden, inspired by an English meadow.
Therme Manchester will combine hundreds of water-based activities with wellbeing treatments, art, nature and technology, creating a unique experience “never before seen in the UK” which won’t disappoint. Regeneration business Peel Waters has already cleared the 28,000 sq metre former EventCity conference and exhibition centre at its TraffordCity site on Barton Dock Road in preparation for the £250m flagship development.
The natural environment will be home to thousands of trees and plants, as well as a whole host of activities – with something for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can expect reasonable prices, as well as a two-acre wellbeing garden, a whopping 35 waterslides, 25 pools (both indoors and outdoors!), a wave pool, 30 saunas and steam rooms and exotic relaxation areas – all under one tropical-inspired roof. Activities will be available for children, adults and the elderly.
Therme Manchester will also be home to its very own ‘urban beach’, too, where guests will be able to kick back and relax. Water lagoons and swim-up bars will be surrounded by beautiful, botanical gardens, while mineral baths, yoga sessions and fitness classes will take place elsewhere in the dynamic centre. The centre hopes to fill a gap for much-needed physical and mental well-being in modern-day life, with a tram stop just outside making it accessible for all.
As well as all of the incredible well-being resources and activities, guests will be able to enjoy a range of bars, cafes and restaurants for all occasions, focusing on healthy choices for both adults and children.
There are also plans for an education centre at Therme Manchester for schools and community groups to learn about nature and sustainability. Plus, access to local cycleways and paths will be improved, including to the neighbouring Bridgewater Canal, plus Metrolink now stops close to the site of Therme Manchester.
Back in March 2023, for the UK’s first city-based wellbeing resort, Therme Manchester, announced the completed demolition of the EventCity site, which will allow Therme Group to build a huge, 28-acre resort opposite the Trafford Centre. Therme Manchester is predicted to attract two million visitors annually, which will make it the most visited water-based attraction in Europe. Therme Group also has plans to expand to other cities in the UK, including London and Glasgow.