Multi-million pound extension at Galgorm Resort
Galgorm Resort & Spa near Ballymena has unveiled an £11m expansion to its spa and accommodation facilities, including the creation of a thermal spa village and 49 new deluxe guestrooms and suites.
The new development, which was officially opened this week by Tourism NI chairman, Terence Brannigan, will also mean almost 80 new jobs for the region.
More than £35m has been spent over the last decade refurbishing and extending the highly-regarded resort hotel on the banks of the River Maine.
Speaking at the opening, which was attended by a wide cross-section of high profile guests from the hospitality and tourism sectors, managing director of the resort, Paul Smyth said that the intention had been to create a “world class addition” to the facilities:
“This latest chapter in the Galgorm story is a testament to the drive and vision of the team, not just at Galgorm Resort & Spa but also to Martin and Hamilton and the 100-strong construction team and our architects, Douglas Wallace, who all worked together to bring the development to life.”
The stunning new facilities include 75,000 square feet of luxurious thermal spa experiences, use of which is complimentary to guests staying at the hotel. Guests are able to relax in a rural idyll and enjoy riverside hot tubs, indoor and outdoor heated pools, steam rooms and saunas.
The new accommodation at the hotel includes the stunning Signature Suite, which is described as “1300 sq. feet of pure luxury”.
Speaking during the opening ceremony in the Orangery at Galgorm, Mr. Brannigan told the gathering:
“The vision, passion and commitment shown by the team at Galgorm Resort & Spa is reinforcing the message that Northern Ireland is competing on a global scale and we look forward to welcoming the many thousands of visitors it will no doubt attract.”
The Tullymore House Group which owns and operates the Ballymena venue is also behind the Bedford Hotel, a £12.5m project which is currently under development at the Scottish Mutual Building in Belfast. Last year, the group took its Fratelli Italian restaurant brand into Belfast, opening at Great Victoria Street. The original Fratelli outlet is at Galgorm.
