Sir Robert McAlpine appointed to Therme Manchester resort

Therme Manchester has appointed Sir Robert McAlpine as construction manager for its flagship urban wellbeing resort in Trafford City, Manchester. The appointment marks a key milestone for what is set to become one of the North West’s most ambitious leisure and health developments.

The announcement follows the formation of a new joint venture, Therme Horizon, between Therme Group and private equity firm CVC, valuing the project at over €1 billion. Sir Robert McAlpine had previously supported the project through a pre-construction services agreement and will now oversee the full delivery phase.

Therme Manchester will be the UK’s first purpose-built urban wellbeing resort, featuring the largest thermal pool complex in Europe. The development will include a wide array of facilities: over 25 water slides, botanical gardens, immersive art installations, the UK’s largest sauna area, numerous steam rooms, a family wave pool, and indoor-outdoor bathing zones. Aimed at promoting health, community, and environmental sustainability, the resort is designed to offer a comprehensive wellbeing experience.

Professor David Russell, CEO of Therme UK, described the appointment as a critical step forward. “Sir Robert McAlpine brings unmatched expertise in delivering complex, large-scale developments,” he said. “Their values align with our focus on community and sustainability, making them the right choice to bring Therme Manchester to life.”

The site, located on the former EventCity plot, is being developed in partnership with Peel Waters. James Whittaker, Managing Director of Peel Waters, called the resort a "gamechanger" for health, leisure, and the visitor economy in the North, and praised the long-standing collaboration with Therme Group.

Cllr Tom Ross, Leader of Trafford Council, welcomed the investment as a major boost to the local economy. “The Therme project supports our ambitions for a thriving economy, improved wellbeing, and sustainable urban regeneration,” he said, highlighting the hundreds of jobs it is expected to create and its accessibility by public and active transport.

Therme Manchester will be integrated into Greater Manchester’s Bee Network and Metrolink, with walking and cycling access enhanced via upgraded routes along the Bridgewater Canal. A multi-storey car park will also be included in the development.

Further updates on the construction timeline and milestones are expected in the coming months.