Plans have been approved for a gargantuan £250m new ‘wellness retreat’ with 25 pools and 30 water slides, to be erected near the Trafford Centre. 

The new development by Therme Group aims to create "an immersive experience that benefits the mental and physical wellbeing of all who visit" (Source: Therme Manchester's website)

Therme describe themselves as "a global pioneer of inclusive urban wellbeing" (Source: Therme Group)

“...Therme’s projects benefit mental and physical health, rejuvenating all who visit, and making a positive economic and social impact for the communities they serve” (Source: Therme Manchester’s website)

The new plans have in fact proved controversial to the communities surrounding the site. Some say it will bring renewed excitement around the area, as the Trafford Centre did many years ago. Others say it will make moving around the area a nightmare, with increased traffic and congestion also potentially worsening air quality.  

I spoke to a few local Urmston and Lostock residents on their thoughts about the new development.

"I'm completely against it, I mean, what good is it doing us? None at all, I think" - Joanne, 48

"I think it'll be great for us to have something like that on our doorstep. How many people can say they've got a 250 million quid waterpark 5 minutes away?"  - James, 24

I think it's just going to make the traffic around there even worse. I wouldn't be surprised if I can never get a seat on the tram anymore either" - Danielle, 32

"It's just another cashgrab development, squeezing the soul out of our town. [...] The Trafford Centre is bad enough, now this? Come on" -Steve 

It seems this issue has divided the local residents, but the plans appear to be going ahead all the same. What do you think about the new development?