Council Outlines Year Of Tourism Activity And Plans For Future Growth

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council has set out a broad overview of tourism, events and outdoor development activity across the borough, during a presentation to its Leisure and Development Committee.

The update was delivered this evening by Head of Tourism and Recreation Peter Thompson, who outlined work carried out over the past 12 months and highlighted priorities for the year ahead.

Councillors heard that the service is structured across four key areas: destination management, tourism events, coast and countryside, and the operation of six council-owned holiday and leisure parks.

Members were told that the council continues to promote the Causeway Coast and Glens as a destination both locally and internationally.

The official tourism website, visitcausewaycoastandglens.com, attracted more than half a million users over the past year, while social media platforms continue to build audiences.

Officers also attended several international trade shows, engaging with tour operators and working alongside organisations such as Tourism Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland.

The council said that a number of journalists and influencers visited the area as part of promotional activity during 2025.

Support for local businesses remains a key focus, with trade clinics, industry events and regular communications designed to help operators develop and promote their offerings.

Tourism events were highlighted as an important part of the council’s work, with a mix of large-scale international events and locally delivered activities.

In recent years, the borough has hosted major golf tournaments, including The Open Championship, with the council playing a coordinating role across a range of operational areas.

Looking ahead, the events team continues to pursue opportunities to attract new signature events, while also leading on the delivery of Armed Forces Day 2026.

More than 20 council-led events are scheduled for the year ahead, alongside activity linked to the North West 200, including town centre events and race-week programming.

A new music and cultural event, the Lir Sessions, is also planned for Ballycastle later this year.

The committee also heard about ongoing work to improve access to outdoor spaces across the borough.

Projects include the development of walking routes such as the Causeway Coast Way, alongside work on beaches, forest parks and public trails.

The council is also progressing biodiversity initiatives and broader environmental projects, with further engagement taking place in recent months.

Work is continuing on a long-term destination management strategy covering 2026 to 2036, with further discussion planned with elected members.

The council’s six holiday and leisure parks remain a key part of its tourism offering, with differing facilities and experiences across each site.

Ongoing work has focused on maintenance, upgrades, and the exploration of future development opportunities.

Plans are also being developed for Benone Strand, including potential expansion of touring provision and improved accessibility.

In closing, Mr Thompson told councillors that tourism and recreation services continue to play a central role in enhancing the visitor experience and supporting the wider community.

He said the council would continue to work with partners and local businesses to develop the area as a destination, while improving access to its natural environment and delivering a programme of events throughout the year.