THE owners of a popular Co Antrim hotel have announced a £1 million investment to extend their iconic seafront destination in time for next summer.
The extension at the Marine Hotel in Ballycastle will include the addition of 12 new executive rooms, a honeymoon suite, a Sushi Bar and a spa, promising guests some of the most idyllic and breath-taking views on the island.
An indoor secure storage area for activity customers with their own bicycles, canoes, golf clubs and fishing equipment will also be created – to tap into the growing activities market.
Co-owner,Colum McLornan said the major investment is in response to "growing demand".
"This past 18 months has seen a huge demand for bedrooms on the north coast from self-drive tourists and groups from USA and China. Together with local demand for weddings, activity breaks and team building events we have decided to expand the hotel bringing us to 45 bedrooms to meet the growing demand."
The hotel hopes that the rejuvenation will see an influx of business from Scotland, with customers making use of the daily ferry service from both Campbelltown and Port Ellen, directly to Ballycastle.
Ado Belfast, whose recent work includes the Bullitt Hotel and Bar in Belfast, have been appointed as architects for the project.
The Marine Hotel was bought out of receivership in 2013 by Colum McLornan and co-partner Claire Hunter. Since then it has been proved to be a vital asset to the local economy, contributing over £2 million in wages.
