News Summary
Galgorm Collection has announced a £30 million investment in Northern Ireland’s first championship links golf course in over a century, named Bellarena Golf Links. Located along the Causeway Coast, the project aims to attract global golf enthusiasts and is expected to create approximately 300 new jobs. Scheduled for completion in 2029, the course will enhance local tourism and economic growth, capitalizing on the existing momentum established by previous golf events in the region.
Bellarena, Northern Ireland — Galgorm Collection has announced a significant £30 million investment towards the development of Northern Ireland’s first championship links golf course in over a century. The project, named Bellarena Golf Links, aims to create a premier golfing experience along the scenic Causeway Coast, close to Limavady. Once completed, this project is expected to attract golf enthusiasts from around the globe.
The championship course will feature 18 holes and is strategically located between the towns of Portrush and Limavady, approximately a 30-minute drive from Derry and its nearby airport. Construction of the course is scheduled to commence in 2026, pending the necessary planning approvals, with hopes for the course to open its doors in 2029.
This new venture will significantly increase Galgorm Collection’s investments in the northwest region of Northern Ireland to around £65 million, reinforcing the company’s commitment to enhancing local tourism and golf culture. In addition, it is estimated that the development will generate approximately 300 new jobs for the local community, supporting the economy through job creation and increased business activity.
Economic Growth and Tourism Potential
The announcement of the Bellarena Golf Links comes at a time when Northern Ireland’s tourism sector is flourishing, having generated a record £86 million last year. This growth can be partly attributed to the boost in golf tourism seen after Royal Portrush hosted The Open in 2019. With Bellarena Golf Links set to become a world-class destination, it is expected to further capitalize on this momentum by drawing visitors interested in both golf and the region’s natural beauty.
Support for the project has been enthusiastic among local political and tourism leaders. The economic benefits anticipated from the course development have been hailed as a pivotal moment for enhancing tourism in the area. Local Member of Parliament Gregory Campbell noted the investment as a significant economic boost for the community, emphasizing the importance of leveraging tourism as a means for local development.
Comments from Local Leaders
Economy Minister Dr. Caoimhe Archibald highlighted Galgorm’s notable confidence in reinvesting in a robust tourism sector, reiterating the important role of such developments in advancing local economic interests. Ellvena Graham, Chair of Tourism Northern Ireland, underlined the region’s reputation as a premier destination for international golfers and praised Galgorm’s ongoing contributions to enhancing this standing.
Project Background and Future Plans
The site for the Bellarena Golf Links is currently undergoing preparatory work, with its name derived from the French word for “beautiful” and the Latin word for “sand,” reflecting the area’s picturesque landscape. The location is conveniently reachable via the main rail line connecting Belfast to Derry, renowned for its breathtaking coastal vistas that add to the overall golfing experience.
This latest project follows Galgorm Collection’s recent acquisition of Roe Park Resort in Limavady and the historic expansion of Galgorm Castle Estate in Ballymena with a £50 million investment in 2023. Furthermore, the company is exploring plans for an additional championship links course development in Glenariffe, Glens of Antrim, indicating a long-term commitment to bolstering golf tourism in Northern Ireland.
As Bellarena Golf Links takes shape, its successful establishment is viewed as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to enhance both the golfing and tourism landscape of Northern Ireland, making it a notable addition to the region’s growing portfolio of attractions.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Northern Ireland Prepares for The Open Championship
Additional Resources
- The Independent
- Wikipedia: Northern Ireland
- Inkl
- Google Search: Bellarena Golf Links
- Sport for Business
- Google Scholar: golf tourism northern ireland
- MSN
- Encyclopedia Britannica: golf tourism
