A NEW alternative tourism company has outlined plans to provide and instal 500 accommodation pods in hand-picked off-the-beaten-track locations in Britain and Ireland over the next five years.
The investment is being undertaken by further.space, which will launch the first five pods in the grounds of Glenarm Castle in July, with further openings in Ballycastle during the summer.
Further.space is a sister company of Intupod, which was founded by Peter Farquharson and David Maxwell two years ago and which is a prominent player in the glamping (glamorous camping) sector.
It will work with landowners who are seeking to maximise the potential of their land through tourism, and says the tie-up with Glenarm Castle is the first of many planned partnerships in Northern Ireland.
Chief executive Mr Farquharson said: “We're delighted to partner with Glenarm Castle, and it is brilliant to see the pods are already booking up fast.
“The Glenarm pods are situated on one of Northern Ireland’s most dramatic coastlines, intersected by the Glens, and we look forward to bringing more pod experiences to unique locations across the UK and Ireland."
He added: “Our research shows that tourists are increasingly looking for something different and want unique experiences that go beyond the traditional weekend break. Our partnership with Glenarm Castle offers this and more.”
Positioned on the renowned Causeway Coastal Route, and with spectacular sea views, the pods will be available from July 12.
Glenarm Castle estate manager Adrian Morrow said: “We're looking forward to hosting and servicing these further.space pods, which are already booked out over the weekend of our Dalriada Festival.
“Each pod is individually decorated, reflecting the surroundings, but all feature an expansive glazed entrance and have stunning views overlooking the Castle Demesne and Glenarm Bay.
“The pods are for up to four people with a comfortable double bed and high-quality bedlinen included, plus integrated bunk beds tucked away, ideal for tweens or teens. Each unique pod also includes a mini fridge, shower room, and somewhere to sit and relax. And wi-fi comes as standard.”
It is understood around a dozen applications for separate glamping schemes are currently going through the planning process in Northern Ireland, including one for 20 pods at Streamvale Open Farm in the Castlereagh Hills.
