The Dunluce Centre in Portrush looks set to be given a new lease of life as entertainment complex as plans progress more than a decade after it shut its doors.
It was formerly one of the area’s top visitor attractions, but shut in 2013 amid falling visitor numbers.
It was sold to Co Donegal businessman Colm O’Donnell for a reported £1.25m earlier this year.
Now, full plans are under way to refurbish and extend the centre to develop a new complex.
That will include amusements, soft play areas, mini golf, bowling, virtual reality room, an arcade, party room, along with indoor and outdoor rides, alongside a food court.
The Dunluce Centre opened in 1993 with its popular turbo tours simulator, distinctive viewing tower and laser quest game initially proving a worthwhile outlay of the millions spent on the family entertainment complex.
The new plans follow an initial community consultation, and have been submitted by Westbury Developments Ltd, which counts Colm O’Donnell as a director.
Elsewhere, the £16.5m Dunluce Lodge, the first five-star venue on the north coast, is expected to open this autumn ahead of the Open Championship’s return to Royal Portrush next July.
On the edge of the fourth fairway, the hotel will employ more than 80 people led by general manager, Stephen Meldrum.
The lodge itself will have 35 luxury suites, as well as a small spa, private lodge with eight suites, private dining and a fireside lounge space.
Its restaurant and bar will overlook the golf course and ocean.
An on-site putting green will be designed by golf architect Martin Ebert and there will be complimentary private transfers to a nearby helipad and to the clubhouses at Royal Portrush and Portstewart Golf Club.