Causeway Coast & Glens Council to install outdoor saunas at Borough’s beaches

Last year Council carried out a review of coastal sites to assess which may be suitable for mobile sauna provision, and February’s Leisure and Development Committee was presented with four shortlisted sites: Benone Strand, Whiterocks, Ballycastle seafront, and Waterfoot.

An officer’s report noted that East Strand, Portrush, was also shortlisted and the necessary statutory requirements will be sought, but it is not proposed to advance this site in the immediate future without further assessment.

“The popularity of cold-water exposure has grown significantly at many coastal sites which fall under Council’s management,” the report added.

“No longer a seasonal activity, it is very much a year-round interest. The combination of consistent bathing water quality and the value of the coastline also contributes to the popularity.

“Increasing awareness of the health benefits associated with cold-water exposure following a sauna has contributed to demand for mobile beach sauna provision.”

The report clarified that additional sites may be considered in the future, subject to market response, and officers have made application for statutory permission for the sites as required by council’s Planning Department.

“Subject to obtaining planning approval, it is proposed to run an Expression of Interest for the identified sites to gauge private sector interest and subsequently hold a competitive procurement process by way of auction,” the report concluded.

It is intended that both the Expression of Interest and auction process are completed by April 2026.