Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
£10m expansion set to be Gal the rage
GALGORM has announced plans to create a suite of new accommodation and thermal spa options within its 380-acre Co Antrim estate.
It is part of a £10million investment that will create up to 50 new hospitality jobs over the next two years.
It also marks the first phase of a £30million project to expand and enhance resort and spa facilities by 2027.
The latest move by Galgorm Collection will ensure the resort’s position as a world-class international tourism destination, having already invested £60million since 2010.
In addition to the expansion of the resort, Galgorm Collection has also committed to the rollout of an enhanced benefits package for all eligible team members, including a £1million investment into premium private healthcare cover over the next five years as part of its ongoing commitment to investing in its people. The announcement was welcomed by Economy Minister Gordon Lyons on a recent visit:
He said: “My department’s Tourism Recovery Action Plan aims to create a solid foundation for recovery and a return to the record-breaking tourism figures of 2019. This announcement by Galgorm is evidence of the vital recovery already taking place within this important and much valued sector.”
Colin Johnston, Galgorm Collection Managing Director, added: “This latest £10million project will see up to 50 additional accommodation units added to the resort over the next two years, which will increase our workforce and expand the estate’s footprint.” New for 2021 is the addition of a range of bespoke Shepherd’s Huts, with the first now open to guests keen for a unique stay within the great outdoors.
Representing an investment of £2.5million, the area is earmarked for further expansion, housing up to 18 huts by summer 2022.
Expanding upon its existing Cottage Suites, work will soon commence on a £2.5million project to add 23 new highspec one-bed cottages.
Plans are also in place to add five treetop hideaways set amidst the forest grounds, with the first opening next year in a £1.5million investment.
Colin added: “From fishing and falconry to cycling, hiking, clay pigeon shooting and horse riding, guests can now enjoy a stay with a difference but with the same luxury and premier hospitality that Galgorm is renowned for.”