Plans have been lodged for a new championship-standard golf course in County Derry, Northern Ireland, on a spectacular coastal site overlooking Lough Foyle.
A Proposal of Application Notice (PAN) has been submitted to Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council for the proposed development at Bellarena, approximately 30 minutes north-east of Derry and around 10 minutes north of Limavady.
125-Hectare Coastal Golf Development
The proposed development would occupy a 125-hectare site on the north side of the River Roe, close to where it meets Lough Foyle. The land extends northwards along the estuary coastline, offering an exceptional setting for a new golf destination.
The application has been submitted by TSA Planning on behalf of Galgorm Castle Estates Limited.
Plans include an 18-hole championship golf course, alongside a range of supporting facilities designed to create a comprehensive golf and leisure destination.
The proposed development would feature:
- An 18-hole championship golf course
- A new clubhouse with bar and restaurant
- Practice facilities
- A short-course driving range
- Putting areas
- Eight golf lodges
- Operational and maintenance buildings
- Car parking
- A wastewater treatment plant
- A dedicated irrigation system
Expanding an Established Golf Portfolio
Galgorm Castle Estates already has significant experience in golf and hospitality. The company owns Galgorm Castle Golf Club, the championship venue and hotel and spa resort near Ballymena, as well as Roe Valley Resort, which includes a hotel and an 18-hole parkland golf course.
Roe Valley Resort is located approximately eight kilometres south-east of the proposed Bellarena development.
The new course would also form part of a wider cluster of established golf destinations along the north coast. Castlerock Golf Club, Portstewart Golf Club and Royal Portrush Golf Club are all within approximately a 45-minute drive of the proposed site.
That proximity could position the Bellarena project within one of Northern Ireland’s most notable golfing regions, potentially creating opportunities for golf tourism and multi-course visitor itineraries.
New Access and Restoration of Historic Building
As part of the proposals, a new access route would be created from the site of the former Bellarena Primary School.
The plans also include the reconstruction of a historic military building located on the site, adding a heritage element to the wider development.
What Happens Next?
The Proposal of Application Notice represents an early stage in the planning process, with further details expected to emerge as the project progresses.
If approved and delivered, the proposed Bellarena development would introduce a major new championship golf course overlooking Lough Foyle, adding another significant golf destination to County Derry and Northern Ireland’s north-west coast.
Further information on the plans is expected in the coming weeks as the application moves through the planning process.
PIC CREDIT; EXPLORE CAUSEWAY COAST AND GLEN’S