Spa complex likely to create 75 jobs at hotel

Spa complex likely to create 75 jobs at hotel

3 February 2016

PLANS have been unveiled for a major extension at the Millbrook Lodge Hotel in Ballynahinch as part of a substantial investment proposal.

Planning permission is being sought to provide an additional 16 bedrooms and a 16,000 square foot spa and conference centre, which has the potential to double the current workforce to around 150 full and part-time staff.

In addition, major work is currently underway inside the hotel and the owners are hoping their redevelopment plans will get planning permission from Newry, Mourne and Down Council.

News of the major expansion which is being financed by Maguire Hotels — owners of the Millbrook — emerged during last week’s public inquiry into plans for Ballynahinch’s new £50m by-pass. 

The owners of the Millbrook are hoping a new right turning lane into the popular hotel will be provided as part of the multi-million pound road scheme to ensure patrons are provided with unimpeded access.

Millbrook manager, Mrs Gerty McCaugherty, said work on the major extension is subject to formal planning approval which she hopes can be secured in the near future.

“The provision of an additional 16 bedrooms will take our complement up to 34. The new spa and conference centre, which represents a substantial investment, will result in a major expansion, providing additional facilities,” she said.

Mrs McCaughey said the internal work currently being carried out at the Millbrook involves the main dining area which is being completely refurbished.

“The restaurant and bistro area is being redeveloped and will become a restaurant only area. We are also constructing new toilets in the centre of the hotel, with those that are currently used being pulled down to add a conservatory and pre-function bar. This work is subject to securing planning approval.”

Mrs McCaugherty said the hotel’s grounds are very important to the Millbrook and the new extension will provide views across the sweeping lawns which are popular with guests, in particular, those attending wedding functions. Couples also utilise the stunning grounds for their wedding photographs.

“We hope to secure planning permission for our expansion plans in the near future. The majority of our staff are all local people,” she continued, agreeing the hotel’s investment proposal will help boost the Ballynahinch economy.

“All of the work we are currently doing and the future proposals is all be self-funded. We hope to secure approval to allow our development plans to proceed,” added Mrs McCaugherty.