News Summary
The Galgorm Collection has announced the development of a new championship links golf course in Bellarena. This £30 million project aims to create the first championship links course in Northern Ireland in over a century, enhancing the region’s standing as a premier golfing destination. Construction is set to begin in 2026, with a projected opening in 2029. The project is expected to generate around 300 jobs and significantly boost local tourism, already thriving since The Open’s hosting in 2019.
Limavady, Northern Ireland – The Galgorm Collection has announced plans for a new championship links golf course in Bellarena, marking a significant development for golf in Northern Ireland. The £30 million project aims to create the first championship links course built in over a century, setting a path to transform the Causeway Coast into a premier golfing destination.
The 18-hole golf course will be situated between the popular towns of Portrush and Limavady, approximately 30 minutes from Derry and its nearby airport. The anticipation surrounding this project is high, as it promises to bolster local tourism, which generated a record £86 million last year, driven largely by the golf sector since Royal Portrush hosted The Open in 2019.
Construction is expected to begin in 2026, pending planning approval, with the course opening its doors to players projected for 2029. This initiative will bring Galgorm Collection’s total investment in the northwestern region of Northern Ireland to around £65 million and is anticipated to create approximately 300 new jobs in the local economy.
Significance of the Project
The proposed Bellarena Golf Links has been touted as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” for the golf and tourism industries in Northern Ireland. This new project follows Galgorm’s recent acquisition of Roe Park Resort and Galgorm Castle Estate, which involved a significant investment of £50 million aimed at enhancing the local tourism landscape. Preparatory work on the Bellarena site is already underway, with the name “Bellarena” derived from French and Latin meaning “beautiful sand.”
Location and Accessibility
The site boasts dramatic coastal views and is conveniently located near the main rail line that connects Belfast and Derry, making it accessible for both local and international visitors. The potential for this golf course to attract global golfers is supported by the ongoing contributions made by Galgorm Collection to the region’s reputation as a desirable destination.
Community and Economic Impact
The announcement has garnered support from various political and tourism leaders, who have highlighted its economic advantages. East Derry MP Gregory Campbell has referred to the investment as a “major economic boost,” emphasizing the importance of spreading the tourism benefits for local development. Additionally, Economy Minister Dr. Caoimhe Archibald has lauded Galgorm’s commitment to re-investing in a thriving tourism sector, indicating that this project aligns with positive growth pathways for the region.
Furthermore, Ellvena Graham, Chair of Tourism Northern Ireland, has reiterated the significance of this venture in strengthening Northern Ireland’s position as an attractive destination for golf enthusiasts around the world.
Future Plans
In addition to the Bellarena project, Galgorm Collection is also exploring the possibility of another championship links course in Glenariffe, located in the Glens of Antrim. This reinforces their commitment to promoting golf tourism within Northern Ireland, aiming to establish the region as a hub for high-quality golfing experiences.
This forthcoming championship links course at Bellarena not only promises to contribute economically to the local community but also enhances Northern Ireland’s stature in the global golf scene, ensuring a brighter future for both tourism and sporting events in the area.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Royal Portrush to Host 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
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