Councillors to Decide Fate of Merrow Hotel and Spa Development in Portstewart

Councillors will make a critical decision next week about the future of the Merrow Hotel and Spa development in Portstewart.

The development, which has faced a series of setbacks, was last discussed during a pre-determination hearing, during which planning officers cited the need for additional time to address a last-minute procedural query concerning third-party notifications.

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council initially granted planning permission on 28 June 2017, but the project hit a major obstacle when the High Court quashed the approval on 6 September 2017 following a legal challenge.

The proposed development for The Merrow Hotel and Spa includes a 119-bedroom hotel, nine-holiday cottages, a visitor attraction, conference facilities, a pool, bars, and restaurants. A unique feature of the plan is a "demonstration restaurant" designed to highlight local culinary talent and produce.

If approved, the development is expected to create up to 100 full-time jobs and address the current demand for high-end hotel accommodation in the region.