Green light for Manchester ice complex

Article posted by Coliseum, February 26^th, 2026

Image: ICITIES and Aew Architects

Plans for a new 3,000-capacity ice arena in Manchester have been given the go-ahead by Trafford Council.

Place North West said Icities has secured consent for the project, which will be constructed on the site of the former Soccer Dome at Peel Waters’ TraffordCity.

The Planet Ice Trafford venue will be operated by Planet Ice and provide a rink for skating and hockey as well as a flexible events space.

A sports bar, family restaurant, and party rooms also feature within the plans, designed by Aew Architects.

The new venue will become the future home of Manchester Storm, who are set to relocate from their current base at Altrincham Ice Arena.

The new ice arena will also include standing sections and encourage interaction and audience participation to add to the electrifying atmosphere the new arena will create for spectators.

Nick Payne, director of Icities, said: “This approval allows us to move forward with creating a truly unique venue.

“Our design combines professional ice facilities with flexible spaces for non-ice events, ensuring the arena can serve a wide range of uses and audiences. The design includes approximately 20,000 sq ft of ancillary space for tenants offering complementary food, beverage and leisure facilities.”

Planet Ice Trafford will become part of TraffordCity’s growing leisure eco-system, which is home to The Padel Club, iFLY, a Daivd Lloyd Health Club, Trafford Golf Centre and Fives Soccer.

Construction of what will surely be the complex’s biggest draw – the £450 million Therme wellbeing resort – is also underway.

Peel Waters said it is “actively exploring” further development opportunities for the remaining Soccer Dome land, including high-end lifestyle hotels and additional leisure and sporting experiences.

James Whittaker, managing director of Peel Waters, said: “Securing planning approval for the TraffordCity Ice Arena is fantastic news for the area.

“This is a significant step in delivering our vision for TraffordCity as a destination that offers something for everyone. The new arena will provide world-class ice facilities and enhance our growing portfolio of sport and leisure experiences; attracting new visitors, investment and employment opportunities to the region.”

Heath Rhodes, chief operations manager at Planet Ice, said the arena would satisfy a growing demand.

He said, “Demand for ice facilities in the North West continues to grow, and this arena will help meet that need while delivering first class amenities for visitors.

“TraffordCity is the perfect location, with excellent transport links and complementary leisure attractions.”

Construction is expected to begin in summer 2026 with a contractor appointment imminent.

Savills advised on planning and Andrew Bain is the project manager. SGi, DEP, and Eddison are also attached to the scheme.

Jeremy Hinds, planning director at Savills Manchester who led on the application, said: “We are delighted that Trafford Council has approved this landmark application this week.

“The new Icities arena represents a major step forward for ice sports in the North West, providing a world‑class facility for both athletes and spectators.

“Its arrival will strengthen Trafford’s position as a premier destination for sport, leisure and entertainment, while delivering significant economic and community benefits to the region.”

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