Plans for massive indoor tropical-themed water resort at Trafford Centre approved

If you’ve always thought the one thing missing from the Trafford Centre is a massive tropical-themed, warm water resort then you’re in luck.

Because that’s exactly what’s opening next door to the shopping centre, a 28-acre wellbeing resort.

It’s estimated to cost somewhere in the region of £250m, with forecasts claiming up to two million visitors will pass through per year, within five years – this would make it the most visited water-based attraction in Europe.

Therme Group

Andrew Western, Trafford Council Leader, said: “We are delighted that this Therme Group development, the first of its kind in the UK, is coming to Trafford.

“It is a huge scheme which will be a fantastic addition to the area and supports several of the Council’s priorities including health and wellbeing.

“It will bring thousands of jobs to the borough and millions of visitors each year, who will benefit our local economy on a massive scale. We are proud that Therme Group has selected Trafford for this superb development.”

The huge indoor tropical-themed water resort will be constructed by Barton Dock Road, between Phoenix Way, Mercury Way and the Bridgewater Canal – the current EventCity will be moving to the building occupied by Soccerdome.

Therme Group

A large family zone will include waterslides, a wave pool, indoor and outdoor pools, steam rooms, exotic palm tree relaxation areas and a whole load of other activities.

In the adults only area, there’ll be warm-water lagoons set in botanical gardens, swim-up bars, therapeutic mineral baths and steam rooms and saunas – and if you’re feeling hungry there will be a range of bars, cafés and restaurants around the resort.

The design is going to focus on nature and biodiversity, with plans to include cycle paths and footpaths, making it easier to get around TraffordCity and the neighbouring Bridgewater Canal.

Therme Group, the people behind the project, plan to have it opened in 2023, with proposals including a 700,000 sq ft resort building, a 43,000 sq ft public square, a 38,000 sq ft lake and up to 1,500 car parking spaces.