Portstewart's Merrow Hotel & Spa Finally Approved Following Prolonged Legal Disputes

Councillors on the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council's planning committee approved the £20 million Merrow Hotel and Spa in Portstewart this afternoon (Wednesday, 28th August 2024) despite further submissions by Jim Allister.

The development, located near the start and finish lines of the renowned North West 200 motorcycle race, has been a subject of contention since it was first introduced in 2016 by C&V Developments Ltd.

The project has faced several legal challenges over the years.

As of this morning, the application had attracted 141 letters of objection and 190 letters of support, along with one petition supporting the development, one petition opposing it, and two submissions expressing no clear stance.

The new hotel is expected to provide much-needed accommodation, create various employment opportunities, offer training, and support local businesses in the area.

The planning application is subject to a "call-in". A call-in could potentially delay the project again, lead to further scrutiny, or even result in the application being overturned.