The DUP MP said,
“I welcome the news that the building work is now underway at Dunluce Lodge, the north coast’s first 5-star hotel & spa. The £16.5m development, funded by American investment, will see the creation of a 35-room luxury complex overlooking the 4th fairway at Royal Portrush Golf Club. The new hotel will help create 80 jobs and that does not include the jobs supported during the construction of the hotel.
Hospitality is a major part of our local economy in East Londonderry and with the opportunity of The Open returning in 2025 we need a strong offering to increase overnight stays and associated benefits for local shops, restaurants and the wider hospitality sector. It has been the case in the past that objections have been raised to other similar type of projects which have delayed the progress towards a better offering in the region, but thankfully while progress can be delayed it cannot be stopped. It is to be hoped we see further investment in our local economy which supports our tourism offering and creates jobs. Scheduled for opening in advance of the 2025 Open Championship this is a welcome boost to our tourism sector.”