Galgorm Resort and Spa Expansion
Enterprise, Trade and Investment Minister Arlene Foster has performed the official sod cutting ceremony for the new £10million extension at the Galgorm Resort and Spa in Ballymena.
Pictured, left to right, Enterprise Minister, Arlene Foster, Ian Paisley MP, Alastair Hamilton, Chief Executive, Invest NI; Mayor of Ballymena, Cllr Audrey Wales; Des Moore, First Trust Bank; David Hamilton, Martin & Hamilton and Paul Smyth, Galgorm Resort & Spa.
The extension will include additional bedrooms and leisure facilities, including a swimming pool and gym.
Arlene Foster said: “The expansion of this already excellent facility by an ambitious and progressive hospitality group will be an important addition to the complex and the wider Northern Ireland tourism offering when it is completed next year.
“As well as 50 full and part-time posts within the hotel complex, additional employment opportunities will be provided during the construction and outfitting stages.
“Galgorm’s expansion will significantly enhance the facilities of this hotel, which is strategically placed within easy reach of major tourism areas such as Mid Antrim, Lough Neagh, the Glens of Antrim, the Antrim Coast Road and the Giant’s Causeway.
“This investment at Galgorm, together with the group’s planned development of The Mutual Building in Belfast into a premium boutique hotel, represent a substantial boost for Northern Ireland’s tourism industry.
“Our objective is to continue to secure major global events in Northern Ireland, such as the Giro d’Italia in May, and it is essential that we have best-in-class facilities to further boost our tourism offering.”
Paul Smyth, Operations Director at Galgorm Resort and Spa, said: “Supported by a strong national and international reputation for quality and service, Galgorm Resort and Spa continues to perform exceptionally well.
“As part of our investment strategy for growth and to provide all our guests with an unrivalled experience in a fantastic location, we are delighted to welcome Minister Foster to officially kick start this new and exciting phase of our development.
“Delivering a premium service for our customers has been at the heart of our success and I look forward to seeing the new luxury bedroom extension and leisure wing developing over the coming weeks and months before the official opening next year.”
