Therme Manchester construction begins on £450 million wellbeing resort

Friday, 12 September 2025 18:43

By David Murphy

Work has officially begun on Therme Manchester, the £450 million wellness resort at TraffordCity set to become the UK’s largest of its kind when it opens in 2028.

A celebration event titled Beyond Groundbreaking was held today, Friday 12 September, to mark the start of construction, bringing together local leaders, partners and community members. The resort promises to deliver thousands of jobs, sustainable innovation, and a major new leisure destination for the North West.

Therme Manchester, described by its backers as a “once-in-a-generation project”, will create around 2,500 construction jobs, with a peak of 1,200 workers on site, and employ 650 permanent staff once open. It also plans to partner with local charities, businesses and community groups.

Sustainability is at the heart of the design. Developers are committed to Manchester’s 2038 carbon net zero target, with plans to use local materials, air source heat pumps, and even on-site 3D printing to reduce waste and emissions.

The resort itself will feature extensive swimming and thermal bathing areas, spa and fitness zones, digital art installations, restaurants, cafes and sustainable gardens, aiming to support both physical and mental wellbeing.

Professor David Russell, CEO of Therme UK, said: “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, called it “a true gamechanger” for Greater Manchester, while construction manager Sir Robert McAlpine said the scheme aligns with its mission of “sustainability, technical excellence and making a meaningful difference to communities.”

Trafford Council also welcomed the development, saying the project will attract millions of visitors, regenerate a brownfield site and provide hundreds of permanent roles for local residents.

Therme Manchester is scheduled for completion at the end of 2028, with an official opening date to be confirmed nearer the time.