Dunluce Centre Redevelopment Set for 2027 Completion as Plans Progress

Plans for the redevelopment of the Dunluce Centre in Portrush have taken a significant step forward, as representatives from Hazel Bay Company Limited presented their progress to local councillors at a Leisure & Development Committee meeting this week.

The owners of the landmark building outlined their vision for creating a "family entertainment centre" by renovating and extending the existing site, which has remained dormant for several years.

"We are working towards creating a customer-focused entertainment centre on what we consider an exceptional site," said a Hazel Bay Company spokesperson. "Our objective is to provide a high-quality tourism attraction that will complement the existing facilities in Portrush."

The presentation revealed that the planning application was submitted in September 2024 following a public consultation held in August. Company representatives confirmed that they had received "a wide and varied response" during the consultation process, with local residents raising concerns about car parking, the types of attractions to be included, and the presence of gaming machines.

Addressing these concerns, the project’s architect emphasised that "the traffic generated by this development will be accommodated on-site," with additional parking spaces included as part of the plans.

Councillors were informed that the planning application has progressed through several stages, with no objections so far from statutory bodies, including DFI Rivers and the Historic Environment Division Archaeology. However, the company is still awaiting responses regarding roads, water, and environmental health assessments.

The proposed development timeline indicates a target completion date of 2027, with planning decisions expected by mid to late summer 2025, followed by construction commencing in January 2026. Hazel Bay representatives explained that the extended timeline is partly due to the specialist nature of some of the planned attractions, which have "significant lead times."

The company acknowledged previous delays in the project, which has been in progress for over four years, citing "unforeseen" circumstances, including fire damage and protracted legal processes. Despite these setbacks, representatives expressed optimism about the current trajectory.

"Since last year, I think we've now got a clear path of progress," said the company spokesperson.

Councillors welcomed the continued commitment to the project, with one remarking that it "represents a key investment in the Portrush area" and expressing hope that the development would be "award-winning for both the council and yourselves."

Concerns were raised about the building's current appearance, with one councillor suggesting that partnership work might be required to improve its exterior ahead of The Open Championship, which will bring "the eyes of the world" to the area.

The Hazel Bay representative acknowledged this concern, stating, "We have been committed to this process for over four years, and it is clear that we believe our proposal is in the best interests of Portrush. Naturally, ensuring Portrush is presented positively is very much in our interest."