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Roe Park Resort evolves into Roe Valley Resort as redevelopment works commence.

Galgorm Collection, Northern Ireland’s premier luxury hospitality group, has announced the start of a bold new era for one of its landmark properties, unveiling the first of four £5 million investment programmes in Roe Valley Resort.

This marks the start of an ambitious transformation plan to elevate the guest experience and redefine luxury at the newly-rebranded resort.

Nestled beside the breathtaking Roe Valley Country Park, Roe Valley Resort is set to become the ultimate destination for families and those seeking a destination for it all.

The first £5 million investment gets under way this year in two phases.

From June, younger guests can look forward to an array of thrilling new features that are packed with adventure. From a giant-sized Helter Skelter and soft play area to a brand-new kids' park, arcade, and thrilling pool slides, the resort is introducing next-level entertainment for younger visitors which can be accessed by both hotel residents and day visitors.

Culinary enthusiasts will also be in for a treat this June as Galgorm Collection brings its acclaimed Italian restaurant, Fratelli, to the North West for the first time. Designed as a welcoming space for both locals and resort guests, Fratelli will offer a warm, family-friendly atmosphere where children can enjoy making their own pizzas, adding a fun and interactive dining experience.

Later this year, in the second-phase investment, for those seeking even more indulgent relaxation, Roe Valley Resort will unveil a stunning new bar and adult-only spa, providing a tranquil escape for guests which will be open in time for Christmas.

Golf lovers can also anticipate enhancements to the award-winning PGA-standard 18-hole golf course later this year, reinforcing Roe Valley Resorts status as one of the island’s top golfing destinations. This exciting redevelopment follows Galgorm Collection’s landmark £28 million acquisition of Roe Valley Resort and Galgorm Castle Estate last November. The group has committed a multi- million-pound investment programme over the next five years to elevate both properties to new heights.

Welcoming the plans, Colin Johnston, Managing Director, Galgorm Collection, said:

“Roe Valley Resort has long been a cherished destination, known for its stunning setting, warm hospitality, and exceptional golf and spa experiences. This investment allows us to build on that legacy, enhancing the resort’s unique charm while introducing exciting new features that will appeal to loyal guests, the local community, and new visitors alike.” Our vision is to elevate Roe Valley Resort as one of Northern Ireland’s most sought-after destinations, offering even more for guests to experience and enjoy. We look forward to unveiling these exciting developments while ensuring the resort continues to provide the outstanding service and character it is known for.”

Steeped in history, Roe Valley Resort occupies a 150-acre estate that was once home to an 18th-century manor house and the first hydroelectric power station in Ireland.

While the original manor house has been meticulously restored, the resort today boasts 118 beautifully appointed bedrooms, an award-winning 18-hole parkland golf course, a driving range, spa, restaurant, stylish bar, and range of conference and banqueting spaces. Additionally, the resort offers three residences for guests seeking a more private retreat.

Perfectly positioned on the edge of Limavady town, Roe Valley Resort offers easy access to some of Northern Ireland’s most spectacular landscapes. Framed by the majestic Sperrin Mountains to the south and the dramatic Atlantic coastline to the north, the region boasts wide sandy beaches, rolling green valleys, and scenic hiking trails, making it an unparalleled escape for adventure and relaxation.

With Roe Valley Resort entering a thrilling new chapter, guests can expect an unparalleled blend of luxury, adventure, and relaxation like never before.

Galgorm Collection donates £7,000 to support Access Employment Limited (AEL) following damage from Storm Éowyn

As part of its continued commitment to supporting local communities, Galgorm Collection has donated £7,000 worth of funding for Access Employment Limited (AEL), a Larne-based social enterprise that provides training, employment, and social opportunities for people aged 16 to 60 with learning difficulties, health conditions, and social disadvantages.

The leading hospitality group’s donation will directly support AEL in repairing the damage caused by Storm Éowyn to the poly-tunnels in Naggy Burn Garden Centre, a vital resource for AEL’s horticulture training program. These poly-tunnels allow service users to develop skills in gardening and help them to supply fresh ingredients to AEL’s Lunchbox Café at Larne Community Hub.

AEL offers a diverse range of training and employment opportunities, including horticulture, catering, production, online retail, and packaging experience - all designed to help service users gain workplace experience and qualifications.

Aaron Doherty, AEL Garden Centre Manager, said:

“We can’t thank Galgorm Collection enough for their kind donation to help us recover from the damage caused by Storm Éowyn. Amongst breakages and damages, we unfortunately had to witness the polythene cover on one of our main growing tunnels being torn from its frame. We also sustained significant damage to a second tunnel too.

“Our poly-tunnels not only offer protected cover to allow our plants to grow but for our trainees to work in, immerse themselves in gardening and help grow the fresh fruit and vegetables which supply our Lunchbox Café, restaurants in the Larne area, and local residents.

“This damage is a major setback for our trainees as they’ve been steadily potting and preparing new stock for Spring. However, we won’t let this dampen our spirits.

“76% of our income comes from commercial activity generated from our social enterprises, such as our Lunchbox Café, and 100% of our profits generated are reinvested back into the organisation. Galgorm Collection’s donation ensures that our resources remain focused on training and supporting our trainees and the community rather than repair costs.”

AEL operates several social enterprises for their trainees to get involved in, including Create Gifts, which gives trainees the chance to create branded merchandise and unique, personalised gifts.

Hannah Anthony, Head of Guest Experience at Galgorm Collection said:

“At Galgorm Collection, we pride ourselves on supporting the local community through our partnerships and charity sponsors. As a local Larne resident, I am delighted to be supporting AEL as they rebuild following Storm Éowyn, ensuring they can continue their incredible work empowering individuals through employment and education.”

Galgorm Collection is actively engaged in corporate social responsibility activities and works with numerous charitable organisations, societies, and clubs to have a positive impact on the local community.

Northern Ireland’s premiere luxury hotel, Galgorm has added a stunning new range of accommodation to its collection, with a £3 million investment.

Having already invested £60 million since 2010, Galgorm secured its position among the world’s premier tourism destinations in 2021 when it announced a further £30 million investment to expand and enhance its resort and spa facilities by 2027.

The new Forest Dens represent £3 million of that investment phase and are the first element of the ‘Forest Garden’ at Galgorm. The expansion to the Thermal Spa Village is due to follow in summer 2025, complete with forest walks, wood-fired sauna, hot tubs and a rope bridge connecting the Thermal Spa Village on both sides of the river.

Colin Johnston, Managing Director at Galgorm, stated:

“Our commitment to maintaining Galgorm’s standing as a world-class, award-winning tourism destination has driven us to invest and innovate continually over the last number of years. This latest £3 million investment is a testament to our dedication to offering premium and authentic experiences to our guests.

The introduction of the Forest Dens marks a unique addition to our accommodation portfolio, providing guests with an exceptional opportunity to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the luxury and tranquillity that Galgorm is renowned for.

With further substantial investments on the horizon, guests can look forward to even more exciting developments, including the expansion of our Thermal Spa Village next summer.”

The fabulous new ‘Forest Dens’ are tucked away beyond the river Maine in the peaceful heart of Galgorm Wood, each one complete with a beautifully bohemian backyard for the chance to get back to nature and soak up some serious tranquility.

Guests will be invited to relax in their own private sauna, unwind with a wood-fired bath and freshen up in the outdoor shower for a truly rejuvenating break from the bustle.

Other features include a stylish indoor kitchenette, outdoor seating with heating, BBQ facilities and a fire pit.

Where earthy nature meets that famous Galgorm luxury, the new Forest Dens, set within 40-acres of private forest, are the latest addition to the resort’s exquisite accommodation offering which includes 125 luxurious guestrooms, 41 cottage suites, 16 Shepherd’s Huts, six log cabins and four exclusive residences.

Suitable for two guests, with one double bed, ensuite with shower and Galgorm Cora amenities, a Forest Den stay includes access to the spectacular Thermal Spa Village from check-in to check-out, helping to bring guests’ sense of Zen to the next level as they embrace true comfort and explore the great outdoors in the Galgorm changing robes and sliders.

All of Galgorm’s lodging accommodation are dog friendly, so guests are also invited to bring their pooches along for a visit.

Just 30 minutes from Belfast, and two and a half hours from Dublin, Galgorm is set within 450 acres of parkland next to the river Maine in the heart of Co Antrim.

The resort was named Best Destination Spa 2024 in the prestigious Conde Nast Johansens Awards, and won six awards at the 2023 World Luxury Awards, including Global Award Winner for Best Luxury Spa Resort.

Forest Dens are now available to book with an overnight stay with Bed & Breakfast available for £270.

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Groundbreaking partnership secured with Galgorm to locate state-of-the-art football centre in Ballymena

The Irish Football Association today confirmed details of its plans to create a new state-of-the-art, multi-million pound National Football Centre as part of a significant strategic investment which will inspire a new generation to reach their full potential.

Located on a 50-acre site opposite the renowned Galgorm near Ballymena, the new facility expects to feature world-class pitches and cutting-edge training facilities, fully realising the association’s ambition to create a project that will become the beating heart of Northern Ireland’s football community, supporting both elite and grassroots players.

A range of potential opportunities were explored across the country and, following a comprehensive review of all the options, Galgorm was chosen as the most compelling, best-fit opportunity to develop the facility.

Confirmation of the plans represent the Irish FA’s long-standing strategic priority to create a facility that will nurture elite talent, support youth development and bolster team performance. It is also designed to serve Northern Ireland’s international squads whilst aiming to support the charitable and community activities of the Irish FA Foundation, and marks a bold investment in the future of the game.

Irish FA President Conrad Kirkwood underscored the project’s far-reaching impact: 

He said: "Realising this project will significantly benefit our teams and players, creating an impressive football campus and leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.

“We anticipate the National Football Centre being a bespoke, world-class facility with a distinct Northern Ireland identity, serving players of all ages, both male and female, while also benefiting the local community and grassroots football.”

The collaboration with Galgorm reflects a shared vision of excellence and innovation.

Colin Johnston, Managing Director of Galgorm, emphasised the significance of the partnership.

He said: “This exciting announcement marks the partnership of two major global brands which are united by a shared commitment to excellence and to supporting our communities.

“We’re immensely proud to be playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of football in Northern Ireland, supporting the success of our national teams while fostering growth at every level of the game.”

The facility will complement the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park in Belfast, creating a dual campus set-up to strengthen Northern Ireland’s football infrastructure.

Irish FA Chief Executive Patrick Nelson highlighted the meticulous planning behind the initiative.

He explained: "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Projects like this don’t happen overnight, and this is the result of significant strategic thinking.

“We have been able to amass capital funding over a long period to make this vision a reality, and we look forward to working with our partners at Galgorm in the coming years.”

The centre is designed to inspire the next generation of footballers, providing a platform for excellence at every level of the game.

Aaron Hughes, the Irish FA’s Technical Director, reinforced its role in competitive development.

He said: "Facilities are crucial to our ongoing development as a football nation. This partnership provides an excellent opportunity to gain a competitive edge in preparation, planning and development at all levels."

The project has also received resounding support from Northern Ireland’s senior international managers.

Michael O’Neill, Northern Ireland senior men’s team manager, said: “This new national football centre will help the current international teams prepare for games better than ever.

“It will also inspire our future international stars on their journey in football from a young age. High quality pitches where coaches and players can work are essential for creating a high performance environment and strong identity across all age groups."

Tanya Oxtoby, Northern Ireland senior women’s team manager, added: "This initiative reaffirms our commitment to developing top tier facilities and resources for our players. It strengthens our culture of excellence and high performance."

With the design phase under way, the Irish FA is working to secure statutory permissions and initiate procurement and construction. It is anticipated that the centre will open its doors in 2028, marking a pivotal moment in Northern Ireland’s football legacy.

Landmark acquisitions and investment plans represent a major uplift and confidence in Northern Ireland’s hospitality and tourism industry

Galgorm Collection, Northern Ireland's premier luxury hospitality group, today Monday 11 November 2024, announced a landmark £50 million investment in the region’s hospitality and tourism sector following the acquisition of two of the region’s most iconic properties: Galgorm Castle Estate in Ballymena and Roe Park Resort in Limavady.

This combined spend, which includes acquisition costs and a multimillion-pound transformation plan for both properties, represents one of the region’s largest investments in Northern Ireland’s hospitality sector and underlines Galgorm Collection’s position as the leading provider of luxury hospitality in the region.

Galgorm Collection, which owns a suite of leading properties including the iconic Galgorm, The Rabbit Hotel and Retreat, and The Old Inn, acquired the historic, internationally renowned Galgorm Castle Estate in Ballymena and the four-star Roe Park Resort & Spa, set in in a magnificent countryside estate in Limavady, for a combined £28 million.

In addition to acquiring both properties, Galgorm Collection has committed an additional £22 million to enhance the properties and estates over the next five years, further enriching their local, national and international appeal.

Building on Galgorm Collection’s vision for exceptional luxury experiences, this investment promises to transform and confirm both properties as must-visit destinations.

At Roe Park Resort, guests will experience an enhanced family-friendly atmosphere, a new bespoke adult-only spa designed for ultimate relaxation, and continued improvements to its renowned golf offering. The developments will position Roe Park as a top destination for families, golf enthusiasts, and those seeking a luxurious escape.

Meanwhile, golf enthusiasts can look forward to significant developments at Galgorm Castle Estate, as its already impressive golf course is elevated with the bold ambition of becoming the top parkland course in Ireland. Detailed plans will be unveiled in the coming months, solidifying the Estate’s reputation as a premier destination for world class golfing experiences.

Colin Johnston, Managing Director of Galgorm Collection, said:

“We are delighted to welcome both Galgorm Castle Estate and Roe Park Resort to the Galgorm Collection family. These are two iconic properties with strong legacies, and we are committed to building on their successes. Our £22 million investment will further enhance their offerings, creating new opportunities for guests to enjoy unparalleled experiences.

“Most importantly, we are excited to welcome the dedicated teams from Galgorm Castle and Roe Park into our collection. Together, we will continue to drive innovation and excellence, shaping an exciting future for these renowned destinations.

“We would also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the people of Ballymena. As the home of our flagship property, Galgorm, Ballymena has been at the heart of our journey, and its support has been integral to our success. We look forward to continuing our commitment to this community as we grow Galgorm Collection and welcome these new properties into our family.”

Conor Murphy MLA, Northern Ireland’s Minister for the Economy, said:

“This significant £50 million investment by Galgorm Collection represents a major boost to the wider economy and local communities and will also help cement the north’s international tourism reputation. Galgorm Collection is already a key player in our hospitality offering and this investment demonstrates their commitment to the sector and is a vote of confidence in the tourism potential here for local and international visitors.

“The investment very much aligns with my economic plan of delivering good jobs and a regionally balanced economy where economic development is felt beyond our main urban centres. This kind of investment helps ensure that the benefits of tourism are felt across the north, supporting long-term growth and prosperity.”

John McGrillen, Chief Executive of Tourism NI, added:

“These landmark acquisitions by Galgorm Collection represent a new and transformative milestone for Northern Ireland’s growing tourism industry. The significant investments planned for Roe Park Resort and Galgorm Castle Estate will greatly enhance Northern Ireland’s attractiveness to local, national, and international visitors, helping us drive tourism’s positive impact on the local and regional economy.

“By further developing these iconic destinations, Galgorm Collection is reinforcing Northern Ireland’s reputation as a world-class tourism destination, creating a lasting positive impact on our international brand and the guest experience.”

Christopher Brooke, Owner of Galgorm Castle, said:

“We are both delighted and saddened with today’s announcement - developing Galgorm Castle estate from a state of disrepair to a thriving development has been a life’s work. Securing its future was critical and we have now achieved this; it has been an honour and a privilege to have played a small part in Galgorm Castle’s rich history.

“We felt the time was right for the estate to further evolve and becoming part of a larger organisation will help achieve this. In particular, the Galgorm Collection team has the expertise to develop the Castle into something very special. We wish them well on the next phase of Galgorm Castle’s story.”

Speaking on behalf of the Roe Park Resort, Alan Wilton, Board Chairman said:

“Roe Park Resort holds a special place in our hearts, and we are extremely proud of the team and all that’s been achieved as we’ve grown and developed. The resort’s continued success is a direct result of the hard work and dedication of our exceptional team. Their commitment to providing top-class service and excellent hospitality is the reason that our guests return to the resort time and again.

“After almost 30 years at the helm, we believe now is the right time to hand over the reins to new ownership, ensuring the resort is poised for the future. This transition marks a significant milestone for Roe Park Resort, and we are confident that this new ownership will bring fresh vision and drive continued growth.

“Galgorm Collection has an outstanding reputation in the hospitality industry, and we are confident that the resort will go from strength to strength under its ownership. We extend our sincere gratitude to those involved in the resort’s success over the last 30 years and wish the new owners the very best of luck as they embark on this exciting new venture. We would also like to thank CBRE who acted for us on the sale.”

Through this significant investment, Galgorm Collection reaffirms its commitment to excellence, innovation, and enhancing Northern Ireland’s standing as a world-class destination for both local and international visitors.

With exciting plans set to unfold over the coming years, this transformational investment will contribute to the continued growth of Northern Ireland’s tourism industry, benefiting both visitors and local communities.