Portstewart Golf Club Given Green Light For Major Course Upgrades

A series of improvements at Portstewart Golf Club have been approved by councillors at a planning committee meeting this morning.

The application, lodged by the club in 2024, encompasses a comprehensive package of works, including alterations to both the Riverside and Strand courses, new practice and chipping greens, an overspill car park, a redesigned practice area with covered bays, and an extension to the greenkeepers’ facilities.

The proposals attracted a mixed response locally, with 13 objections lodged alongside 8 letters of support. Opponents voiced concerns over the visual impact of the new facilities, potential noise from practice bays, and the effect on the surrounding Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Supporters, however, highlighted the potential for boosting golf tourism and strengthening the club’s ability to host international tournaments.

Among those backing the plans was Dr Peter Bolan, Director of Golf Management at Ulster University. In a letter to the council, he described the development as “a forward-looking investment” that would deliver lasting benefits to the wider Causeway Coast and Glens area. He said the club already attracts thousands of overseas visitors each year and plays “a vital role in sustaining the tourism and hospitality industries that are so crucial to the region”

Planning officers concluded the development would not significantly harm the local landscape or protected habitats following restoration works, subject to conditions governing construction and habitat management. Councillors voted to approve the application, agreeing with the recommendation that the upgrades comply with relevant planning policies.

Speaking at the meeting, club chair David Lamont thanked councillors and planning officers for their consideration. He pointed to Portstewart’s long history and community roots, with members ranging in age from eight to over ninety, and emphasised the club’s role as “custodians” of the sensitive dune landscape.

“We are the biggest club in Northern Ireland—and one of the biggest in Ireland—with two 18-hole courses. We employ upwards of 80 people, and the number of visitors we welcome is phenomenal. Over the last 30 years we have developed what is becoming a world-class facility, recognised internationally, but we now need better practice facilities to maintain our place at the very top of golf echelons—not just in Ireland, but worldwide."

Portstewart Golf Club, founded in 1894, is already recognised as one of Northern Ireland’s premier links venues. It attracts thousands of visitors annually, particularly from North America, and has previously staged high-profile events.

The club has stated that the improvements are designed to enhance safety and playability while preserving the natural character of the dunes.

Councillors agreed, voting unanimously in favour of approval. Twelve members proposed to approve the application, with no objections recorded

Lands at Portstewart Golf Club 117 Strand Road, Portstewart Proposal: Modifications to Portstewart Golf Course comprising improvements to the Riverside and Strand courses, new chipping and practice greens, realignment of practice area and new covered bays, overspill car park, extension to greenkeepers shed (including replacement water storage tank and storage bays) and ancillary works. Includes retrospective modifications to holes 13, 14 and 15 on the Strand course.