TraffordCity’s Ice Arena Approved

Our plans for a new Ice Arena at TraffordCity have been approved. The landmark 3,000‑capacity venue will bring world-class ice sports and flexible event space to Greater Manchester.

Designed for our client ICITIES on land owned by Peel Waters, the purpose-built arena will feature state-of-the-art ice skating and ice hockey facilities, alongside a multi-use event space.

Our approved design delivers a dramatic yet highly functional building that balances commercial, operational, and experiential goals.

We have developed a strong and distinctive identity for the building, setting it apart from neighbouring structures at TraffordCity and establishing it as a landmark. The facade comprises dark cladding punctuated by bursts of light – inspired by movement on the ice. This approach ensures the building is easily recognisable and communicates its purpose both up close and from a distance, day and night.

Internally, spaces are designed to support a sense of journey and atmosphere. Users transition from an intimate entrance into the vibrant 12-metre-high arena, with supporting front-of-house areas including a flexible café-bar and rentable community/event rooms.

Associate Director, Ben Robinson said of the design: “In today’s climate it’s vital that buildings do more than serve a single purpose. At the Ice Arena, we’ve designed spaces that aren’t locked into one use, with the reception, waiting area, café and concourse zones designed to support multiple activities and events. This approach extends the potential of the building and will ensures it works harder for both the operator and visitors. It’s great to see these proposals now approved.”

The arena forms a key part of Peel Waters’ wider vision for TraffordCity and will reinforce the area’s growing sports and leisure cluster. Construction is expected to begin in early 2026.

The project forms part of a growing portfolio of sports and leisure developments, which includes the Halifax Leisure Centre for Calderdale Council.