The plans were unveiled by McAlister Holdings which is aiming to create a five-star experience in the heart of some of the Province’s most loved scenery.

Details of the proposals which include 200 beds, a spa and leisure facilities, restaurant, plus conference and wedding provision were outlined last night during a presentation by the development team in the current hotel complex.

The project is also expected to create several hundred jobs within the construction and hospitality sectors during each stage of the scheme.

“Once complete the new hotel will provide an enhanced facility and will attract and accommodate a high percentage of the yearly one million visitors to neighbouring attractions – the Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge,” said McAlister Holdings managing director Mervyn McAlister.

Originally based in the area he said the firm was eager to gauge local reaction before approaching the planning authorities.

“We want to firmly place our proposals in the public arena to give local residents and businesses the opportunity to discuss any aspects of the scheme with us and present us with their feedback in bringing forward our proposals for the hotel before we speak with planners and submit a planning application.”

The effect of the new facility would have a knock-on benefit to local retailers as well as in terms of employment in the area, Mr McAlister added creating around 125 construction jobs during building and 225 full and part-time hotel jobs when the hotel is fully operational.

The existing hotel currently employs 50 staff.

“We believe that our proposals represent a unique opportunity to create a significant tourist facility which will not only be a landmark in Ballycastle but will become a premier destination resort hotel in Ireland. This will deliver a major boost for local tourism and the local economy.

“We anticipate investing almost £30 million in this new facility which we expect to deliver over a two-year period.

“So this is a considerable commitment from McAlister Holdings to a scheme that we believe offers an exciting facility for the whole town and the north Antrim coast.”