One of the most well-known hotels on Northern Ireland’s north coast has completed a £1 million investment.
The Marine Hotel in Ballycastle, County Antrim, has added 10 new family rooms to its bed capacity, renovated its event space and, in doing so, created 10 new jobs. Headcount at the hotel now stands at 40 and the co-owner Claire Hunter said the expansion will help broaden its appeal to tourists.
“Through our latest expansion and renovation, we are ensuring visitors have a welcoming and comfortable spot to linger even longer in the area,” she said. “Our new rooms are perfect for families and groups who want to avail of local activities on offer like golf and kayaking, and we’re proud to collaborate with other local businesses to distinguish Ballycastle as a hotspot for such guests.”
AIB provided finance for the expansion.
“There is no doubt the last two years have been challenging for the hotels industry so we’re incredibly grateful for the support of AIB along with Tourism NI, Invest NI and the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation who have all helped us build upon our business strategy,” Claire Hunter said. “We’re grateful to the team at Martin Hamilton Building Contractors in Ballymena as well for creating our new rooms and bringing our vision to life.”
Claire runs the hotel with business partner Colum McLornan. Shane Megahey, Head of Relationship Management at AIB, said the management team are responsible for driving growth at the hotel.
“Not only are they enhancing the appeal of the hotel, but they are also creating opportunities for further growth in the area and beyond. With a focus on exceptional customer service and quality, as well as collaborating with other businesses and industry partners, the team has set itself apart during a challenging period and we’re proud to back their dreams and ambitions.”
