Northern Ireland Tourism Future Unveiled: Visit Causeway Industry Day Highlights Sustainable Growth with 2026–2036 Strategy

Published on December 6, 2025

The recent Visit Causeway Industry Day, a pivotal event held in the Causeway Coast and Glens region, provided an invaluable opportunity to explore the tourism sector’s progress and its strategic plans for the future. Focused on the development of the Destination Management Strategy for the years 2026–2036, the event brought together key figures from the local tourism industry, offering a platform for collaboration and insightful discussions.

An Event Celebrating Collaboration and Progress

One of the main highlights of the event was the keynote speech delivered by Pól Ó Conghaile, a well-known travel writer from the Irish Independent. His talk centered around the Shared Island WAW – CCR Initiative, an important project that aims to boost tourism and foster stronger partnerships across the region. The initiative plays a key role in making the Causeway Coast and Glens more appealing to tourists while promoting a unified vision for the future.

The event also featured various speakers, including Councillor Oliver McMullan, the Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens. McMullan emphasized the remarkable resilience, passion, and innovation displayed by the region’s tourism industry. He underlined that events like this not only spark new ideas but also strengthen the partnerships that help shape the Causeway Coast and Glens into one of Northern Ireland’s most desirable travel destinations.

The event was hosted by Sarah Travers, who guided a panel discussion with local tourism providers, including Hano Windisch (FreediveNI), Wendy Gallagher (Causeway Coast Foodie Tours), Mark Rodgers (Dalriada Kingdom Tours), and Maria McAlister, Experience Development Manager at Tourism NI. The panel shared their experiences, challenges, and successes, offering the audience a glimpse into the benefits of collaboration and the ways in which these businesses are contributing to the region’s growing reputation.

Tourism NI’s Commitment to Supporting Local Growth

Naomi Waite, the Director of Marketing at Tourism Northern Ireland, highlighted the essential role of collaboration between local councils and tourism businesses. She stressed that Tourism NI’s partnership with Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council is fundamental to driving the region’s tourism sector forward. Events like the Visit Causeway Industry Day allow Tourism NI to engage directly with local tourism providers, offering them vital support, tools, and resources for success. Waite expressed excitement about the future opportunities for collaboration, which will continue to fuel the region’s tourism growth.

Networking Opportunities and Collaborative Success

One of the key benefits of the event was the opportunity for tourism businesses to engage with industry experts and learn about the support available to them. Representatives from Visit Causeway’s Destination Marketing team, Go Succeed, and Tourism NI showcased the resources they offer to local businesses. These experts provided valuable insights into destination marketing strategies, promotional tools, and ways to maximize local tourism growth. Networking sessions offered a chance for businesses to establish new connections, exchange ideas, and collaborate on future projects that will enhance the region’s appeal to tourists.

Kerrie McGonigle, the Destination Manager for Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, expressed satisfaction with the event’s turnout and the energy displayed by tourism providers. She emphasized how the feedback gathered during the event would play an essential role in shaping the future planning and development of the region’s tourism strategy. By working together, the community and tourism sector are creating a more connected and vibrant tourism industry in Causeway Coast and Glens.

Looking Ahead: Causeway Coast and Glens’ Destination Management Strategy

A significant focus of the Visit Causeway Industry Day was the ongoing development of the Destination Management Strategy for 2026–2036. The strategy is set to play a crucial role in creating a sustainable and thriving tourism environment in the region, benefiting both local communities and visitors. The insights gained from the event will inform the direction of the strategy, ensuring that it aligns with the needs and aspirations of the local tourism sector while preserving the region’s unique cultural and natural heritage.

The strategy will focus on improving the overall visitor experience while safeguarding the region’s iconic landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant communities. Continued collaboration between the Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council, local tourism providers, and stakeholders will ensure the success of the strategy, helping the region stay at the forefront of Northern Ireland’s tourism scene.

The Importance of Networking and Community Engagement

The Visit Causeway Industry Day was not only an informative event but also a valuable opportunity for local businesses to connect, collaborate, and share their expertise. Networking sessions allowed participants to discuss common challenges and opportunities, making it easier for tourism providers to work together and enhance the region’s appeal. These sessions facilitated open conversations between tourism professionals and local authorities, ensuring that future plans are informed by the realities of the tourism industry.

By fostering a sense of community and shared purpose, the event helped to reinforce the importance of collaboration and collective action in driving the growth of Causeway Coast and Glens’ tourism industry. The partnerships formed and ideas generated during this event are sure to contribute to the region’s long-term success.

The Road Ahead: Growing Together

As the region continues to evolve as a premier tourism destination, the Visit Causeway Industry Day served as a reminder of the strength, resilience, and creativity of the local tourism sector. The collaborative spirit demonstrated by all those involved is a testament to the region’s commitment to developing a sustainable and successful tourism industry. With continued support from Tourism NI, local businesses, and the community, Causeway Coast and Glens is well-positioned for a bright future.

The Destination Management Strategy for 2026–2036, along with the dedication and passion of local tourism providers, ensures that the region will remain an attractive destination for both domestic and international tourists in the years to come.