Moray planning officials have given the green light to a £100million development at The Macallan distillery in Craigellachie.
When they meet on August 5 members of the Moray Council planning committee will be told that the development should go ahead – and if they agree work on the project could begin by the end of this year and be completed by 2017.
Drinks firm Edrington announced its plans for the distillery last year in the midst of a growing demand for their whisky. Architects given the task of redesigning the distillery, creating a new production facility and visitor centre, are renowned for their work on the Millennium Dome and Terminal 5 at Heathrow Airport.
Rosemary Gallagher, communications manager at the Scotch Whisky Association, commented on the demand that has driven the massive investment in the industry: “We have seen a steady demand over the last decade from all over the world.
“New markets have continued to open up in South America and the Far East – and we’re currently looking forward to expanding in Africa.”
Council officer say that while they recommend the proposal is passed they recommend that the B9012 is widened where it runs past the distillery.