Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council Outlines Preparations For Major Golf Event

In a webinar hosted this afternoon by Tourism NI, Jonny McCarron from Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council provided an insightful update on the council's efforts to ensure the success of the upcoming major golf championship in Portrush.

Speaking with enthusiasm and clarity, Jonny outlined the key focus areas for the council as it gears up to welcome an estimated quarter of a million visitors to the coastal town, which typically has a population of just 6,000.

Tourism and Promotion at the Forefront

One of the council’s primary work streams is tourism and promotion, aimed at maximising the event’s impact on Portrush and its surrounding areas. Jonny detailed plans for a vibrant programme of events, including concerts, shows, and other activities to “animate” the town during the championship week.

The council is also investing in the area's aesthetic appeal, with efforts to dress and brand the city, improve travel routes, and enhance the local visitor experience.

A significant part of this strand involves collaboration with the council’s destination tourism marketing team. Jonny highlighted updates to the Visit Causeway Coast & Glens website, which now features a dedicated section for golf visitors. “It’s a great new section to assist and direct visitors to our wonderful part of the world,” he said, encouraging its promotion.

The council is also working closely with local businesses—pubs, restaurants, and venues—to help them capitalise on the influx of visitors by promoting their offerings.

Continuity and Presentation: Keeping Portrush Running Smoothly

Another critical focus is what Jonny termed “continuity and presentation.” This effort ensures Portrush and its surrounding areas function generally despite the expected crowds. Acknowledging the challenge, he noted that everyday services such as waste collection, health visits, and deliveries must continue seamlessly for residents, tourists, and businesses.

“We want to ensure the town and its routes are presented as cleanly and perfectly as possible,” Jonny explained. With the stunning coastal backdrop already in place, the council aims to create a well-maintained and welcoming environment that leaves visitors with a lasting impression—and a desire to return.

Traffic and Transport: Managing the Masses

The logistics of moving large numbers of people safely to and from the town and golf course are being tackled under the traffic and transport strand. Jonny described a comprehensive approach involving “planes, trains, automobiles, helicopters—all possible mechanisms of transport you can imagine.” This includes parking provisions, park-and-ride schemes, and coordinated timetables for trains and buses.

With an anticipated 250,000 visitors descending on Portrush over the week, managing this “footprint” is a priority. “The health and safety of individuals is always at the forefront,” Jonny stressed, underscoring the council’s close collaboration with the Royal & Ancient (R&A) and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth traffic flow and pedestrians.

Community Engagement and Business Support

The council is also fostering strong community ties through open engagement days. Jonny highlighted a successful session held on 19th February at Portrush Town Hall, attended by 250 people, including representatives from 66 local businesses. “It was an opportunity to provide early information about what’s happening and how they can get involved,” he said.

The event was so well-received that a repeat is planned for May, followed by regular “open mornings” starting in early May. These drop-in sessions at the town hall will allow residents and business owners to ask questions and raise concerns directly with council and R&A representatives.

Jonny also mentioned additional initiatives, such as sporting events and golf coaching for schools and community groups, starting from the Easter holidays, to promote well-being and capitalise on the championship’s momentum.

Visitor Information Centres

Finally, Jonny pointed to the council’s network of Visitor Information Centres across the Borough as vital resources. These centres will serve as central points for directing visitors to local attractions, accommodation, and activities—particularly those not attending the golf event or looking for things to do on “in-between days.”

A Collaborative Effort

Wrapping up his update, Jonny expressed gratitude for the opportunity to share the council’s progress.

“There’s a lot going on in the background,” he said, reflecting the scale of preparation underway.

With tourism promotion, operational continuity, transport logistics, community engagement, and visitor support all in motion, Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council is leaving no stone unturned to ensure the championship is a resounding success—for Portrush, its residents, and the thousands of visitors set to arrive.