Plans for a 17-unit glamping development at 73 Ballyscullion Road in Bellaghy, Mid Ulster, have received a recommendation for approval, with local representatives citing tourism demand and the area’s existing visitor attractions as factors supporting the proposal.
The planning application was submitted by Bell Rolston of Newtownabbey on behalf of Valor Homes Ltd., based in Bellaghy. The proposed development includes 17 self-catering glamping pods, along with landscaping, drainage infrastructure, parking facilities, cut-and-fill works, and the continued use of an existing access onto Ballyscullion Road.
The application site covers approximately 5.76 hectares of agricultural land comprising two large fields. According to the planning assessment prepared by Mid Ulster District Council officers, the fields are bordered by mature hedgerows and trees, with established vegetation along the northern and eastern boundaries.
The site is located near several tourism attractions, including Seamus Heaney HomePlace, Ballyscullion House and Park, Lough Beg Nature Reserve, Newferry slipway, and Bellaghy Bawn. Planning officers identified the site’s proximity to these destinations as a factor supporting its suitability for additional visitor accommodation.
In their assessment, officers considered the proposal against the Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) and concluded that its scale and design were appropriate for the surrounding area. The report also stated that the development would not have a detrimental impact on local heritage assets, protected species, or habitats.
Relevant consultees raised no objections that would prevent the project from proceeding, with the proposal considered acceptable in terms of access arrangements, design, environmental effects, and potential impacts on neighboring properties and local amenities.
The planning assessment also addressed how the accommodation would be used, given its location in the countryside, according to The Impartial Reporter. Any permission for the self-catering units would include a condition restricting their use to holiday letting rather than permanent residential occupation.
The report explained that the overall design, site layout, amenity open space, and individual unit specifications would need to discourage permanent residential use. Permitted development rights relating to plot boundaries would also be removed through planning conditions.
Officers further noted that self-catering accommodation connected to an existing tourism enterprise could strengthen visitor activity, improve the economic viability of tourism businesses, and support wider tourism initiatives in the area.
The application was listed for consideration at Mid Ulster District Council’s Planning Committee meeting on November 3, 2026.
Councillor Sean Clarke, representing the Magherafelt District Electoral Area, welcomed the proposal and indicated his support for the planning officers’ recommendation.
“I will propose that we accept the recommendation [to approve the planning application].
“I do believe that [there is] growth around Bellaghy in tourism and people coming, with the Seamus Heaney [HomePlace] and Bellaghy Bawn, there’s a lot of people coming to the walks around that part. So, it’s great to see that a project like this is going to take place.”
Clarke’s comments reflected the potential for additional accommodation to serve visitors exploring Bellaghy’s cultural and natural attractions. The area’s existing walking routes and heritage destinations could provide a source of demand for short-stay accommodation, particularly among visitors seeking experiences beyond traditional hotels and guesthouses.
Councillor Denise Johnston of the Social Democratic and Labour Party, representing the Moyola District Electoral Area, seconded the recommendation to approve the application.
For outdoor hospitality operators and prospective developers, the proposal highlights several planning considerations relevant to countryside glamping projects in Northern Ireland. These include demonstrating a clear connection between a proposed development and established tourism attractions, addressing environmental and access requirements, and ensuring that accommodation is designed and managed for short-term visitor use.
The proposed 17 pods would add self-catering capacity to Bellaghy’s tourism offering. However, the development’s eventual contribution to the local visitor economy will depend on the project’s delivery, operating model, and ability to attract guests throughout the year.
The November 3 committee consideration is an important milestone in the application process. The planning officers’ recommendation was to approve the proposal.
