Belfast Development Corp executive director resigns

Belfast Community Development Corporation is looking for a new executive director following Barry Galloway’s recent resignation.

“Barry’s forte is development,” board chair Mark Booth said.

Mr Galloway guided the non-profit through the better part of a global pandemic, the biggest hurricane to hit the Island on record which pummeled forested land at both Lord Selkirk and Pinette Park, as well as two tourism seasons impacted by Northumberland Ferry service interruptions, Mr Booth added.

Given his background and expertise, Mr Galloway was hired with the understanding that looking into development opportunities would be a primary focus of his work, Mr Booth said.

While in the role he supported looking into the viability and potential impact of opening a Belfast wellness centre, constructing affordable housing and ways to support increased revenues, maintenance and improvements at Pinette Park.

However in recent months, Mr Booth said the community has made it clear they would like an executive director to stick closer to managing the Highland Greens Golf Course and Lord Selkirk Campground rather than spearheading development projects.

Mr Galloway said he preferred not to comment about his resignation. However, he said significant personal factors played into his decision.

Following a public March meeting board member William McGuigan also resigned. He said his decision was largely driven by conflicting time commitments with work and other groups which are limiting his ability to contribute to the board.

“They need engaged board members now,” he said.

Mr McGuigan is director of operations at Dr John Gillis Memorial Lodge in Belfast and he anticipates a potential increase in responsibility and work moving forward given recent government investments in long-term care.

Rachel Collier, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Eastern Graphic