Business

Residents' opposition scuppers north coast hotel plan - but new application being worked

The proposed new Dunluce Resort and Spa will be close to the magnificent Royal Portrush golf course
The proposed new Dunluce Resort and Spa will be close to the magnificent Royal Portrush golf course The proposed new Dunluce Resort and Spa will be close to the magnificent Royal Portrush golf course

RESIDENTS' opposition has scuppered plans for a multi-million pound luxury hotel complex on the north coast, close to 2019 Open venue Royal Portrush golf club.

But the developers behind the scheme say they will consult further on the scheme, "learn from their experience" and resubmit fresh plans early next year.

North Coast Ventures Limited admitted the original plans "were not appropriate", and subsequently withdrew its original planning application "after community feedback".

The proposed Dunluce Resort & Spa is on a 10-acre site between the Ballymacrea Road and Dunluce Road overlooking Royal Portrush golf club towards the Giants Causeway and the hills of Donegal on the Inishowen Peninsula.

Gavin Boyd, director of North Coast Ventures, said: “We've listened to the local community and the feedback we have received during the consultation process.

"This move demonstrates that we understand those concerns and accept that the initial plans outlined weren’t appropriate."

He added: “We still firmly believe that the north coast needs higher quality accommodation and a greater number of hotel rooms, so we intend to submit new plans early in the new year, working alongside a new professional team.

"Consultations about our new plans will be comprehensive and we intend to learn from our experience over the last number of months.”

Fellow director Minka Boyd added: “We have always said that it is our intention to be sensitive to the natural landscape and listen to the feedback of the local community, and this time we will consult with them from the very start of the process.”