Creative Gardens: New Growth for NI

THE world of gardening in Northern Ireland was buzzing this weekend with the official opening of the new Creative Gardens centre at Galgorm Castle.

The new centre was officially opened by the Mayor of Ballymena, Councillor Mrs Audrey Wales, on Friday 14 February, at 9:30am.

The ribbon cutting ceremony kick started a weekend full of exciting activity for all those who visited the new centre, with spot prizes, money off vouchers, face painting and treasure hunts; it certainly was a weekend not to be missed.

Philip Gass, company director, comments; ?We were extremely touched to see so much support from the local community at our opening event last weekend. It is hard to believe that it has been almost three years since plans were set in place for the opening, and the excitement over the past few months has been unfathomable.

?I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported us throughout this process, but most of all, I would like to thank the people of Ballymena for welcoming us in to their community with such open arms.?

Philip works alongside family members Oliver and Jenny, as well as his Mother and founder, Diana, who set up the award winning business 30 years ago. Creative Gardens NI has premises in Donaghadee, Bushmills and Galgorm and specialise in all year round, colourful plants for both the experienced gardener and beginner alike. Plants are complemented by a huge range of garden accessories, giftware and interiors.

The new centre nestled within the grounds of the Galgorm Castle Estate and Golf Club has created 60 new jobs for residents in the surrounding area.

Creative Gardens Galgorm Castle is the first of three phases that will complete a substantial ?8 million ?facelift? of the existing Galgorm Estate, with plans already in place for a courtyard business centre and essential restoration of the Castle itself.