Residents in Ballymena will have noticed a striking transformation of the Galgorm roundabout and surrounding area in recent weeks, the result of a £150,000 investment by local hospitality group Galgorm Collection.
The two-year project began in 2025, with £100,000 spent restoring the roundabout’s structure, including its stone wall and tree planting. A further £50,000 was committed this year to plant 865 roses, 800 box hedges and 50 multi-stemmed silver birches, which will be underplanted with daffodils later in the year. The project was led by Stephen Mackle, head of grounds at Galgorm Resort.
The roundabout upgrade is the latest in a long line of community initiatives from Galgorm Collection, which employs a strong team of over 1,400 across its hotels, restaurants and golf experiences. Other initiatives also include partnerships with local schools and colleges, and sponsorship of sporting teams such as Cullybackey Blues FC, Netball NI and the Antrim Camogie Minor squad.
“In keeping with our mission and culture, we’re committed to investing in projects that help elevate our communities and drive positive social impact,” said Colin Johnston, CEO of Galgorm Collection.
“Galgorm roundabout is such a prominent feature in the village, encountered by countless residents, business owners and visitors every day. The village is also home to many of our own employees, which makes this project feel especially personal to us. We wanted to commit our resources to this transformation, creating a standout space for the area while supporting the local community.
“As a business, we recognise the role we play in securing the area’s future, whether that’s creating employment opportunities, sponsoring a sports team, or engaging with our local schools. This project is another example of that ongoing commitment, and we look forward to working on future projects in both Galgorm and Cullybackey.”
Stephen Mackle, head of grounds at Galgorm Resort, added: “It’s been a real privilege to oversee this transformation. Getting the planting right takes real planning. We chose the roses and box hedging for structure and long-season colour, while the silver birches will add height and movement as they mature. Underplanting them with daffodils later this year means there’ll be a fresh display come spring, so the area keeps evolving through the seasons.”
Galgorm Collection
Galgorm Collection has significantly grown its hospitality footprint and workforce over the past decade, and its commitment to economic impact and community support continues to grow alongside it.
The investment comes ahead of another high-profile date on the Collection’s calendar: the NI Legends competition returns to Galgorm from 4–6 September, welcoming thousands of golf fans and some of the sport’s biggest names. Entry is free for spectators, visit galgorm.com for further details.
