Trafford is fast emerging as one of the UK’s most sought-after investment locations, fuelled by a £1.6 billion regeneration project that is reshaping the area into a high-growth property and business hub.
According to X1 Developments, the ambitious Trafford Waters master plan is setting new benchmarks for capital growth and rental returns, cementing Trafford’s position as a market leader for investors.
With average property prices of £384,000 and annual rental growth of 14.5%, the area is increasingly attractive for both domestic and international buyers.
Located just west of Manchester city centre, TraffordCity is undergoing a major transformation. The redevelopment includes world-class retail, leisure, and business infrastructure, making it one of the fastest-growing investment hotspots in the UK.
X1 Developments CEO Nick Sweeney said the project is delivering exceptional opportunities for investors.
“Trafford Waters is more than just a residential development—it’s a new community within TraffordCity, designed to provide high-quality living spaces alongside world-class leisure and business facilities,” he said.
The area is set to feature:
• 12 padel courts, positioning Trafford as a key hub for international padel tournaments.
• Planet Ice, a 3,000-capacity ice arena that will also serve as a multi-purpose event venue.
• AirKicks, a state-of-the-art indoor skydiving facility.
• The UK’s highest indoor ski dome, bringing world-class skiing to the North.
• David Lloyd’s £8m fitness and wellness expansion.
• Trafford Golf Range, one of the busiest in the UK, with 20 million golf balls hit annually.
• Therme Spa, a £300m development set to become one of the UK’s largest health and wellness centres, due to open in 2027.
High demand for premium residential space
X1 Trafford Waters, located within TraffordCity, will offer a waterfront collection of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments as part of the area’s first residential phase.
With property prices starting from £198,000, the development is expected to see significant capital growth over the next five to ten years, supported by strong rental demand and ongoing commercial expansion.
X1’s developments form part of Peel Group’s broader vision for TraffordCity, which will feature three interconnected neighbourhoods:
• Trafford Centre
• Trafford Waters
• Trafford Quay Leisure Village
The project will integrate 700,000 square feet of commercial space, alongside an initial 3,000 new homes, creating a mixed-use community set to rival some of the UK’s most dynamic investment locations.
Since launching in 2009, X1 Developments has delivered £1.2 billion worth of property across 43 large-scale projects, selling 7,700 units across 110 countries.
CEO Nick Sweeney highlighted the company’s long-term commitment to quality and sustainability: “Our mission has always been to build more than just buildings—we aim to create vibrant communities that people love to live in.
“We’ve built a global reputation, but our focus remains on delivering high-quality developments that support both local and international investors.”
With TraffordCity’s regeneration well underway, Trafford Waters is shaping up to be a high-yield investment destination, offering exceptional long-term growth potential for investors looking to capitalise on Manchester’s expanding property market.
