Argyll and Bute council have received a planning application from Brave New Spirits for a new whisky distillery in Campbeltown, at the site of the disused RAF airbase in Machrihanish, marking the growing resurgence of the coastal town as a distinct whisky region.
There were once 30 distilleries in Campbeltown and, at the end of the 19th century, it was such a significant producer of whisky that the area was recognised as one of the great whisky regions of Scotland.
The Witchburn distillery plans to create around 30 permanent new jobs in production, warehousing and distribution, as well as a visitors centre in the next few years.
The architects behind the distillery are sustainable distilling and engineering experts, Organic Architects.
Gareth Roberts, Founder & Director of Organic Architects, said, “This latest planning application is great news for Campbeltown’s economy. Craft whisky makers can thrive here, benefitting from clean water, local power generation and an idyllic location.
“The whisky boom will provide local well paid and stable jobs across a variety of roles including distilling, warehousing and visitor centres.
“Campbeltown is definitely one to watch and we are proud to be involved in its key turning point in history.”
Founding Master Distiller Andrew Nairn at Brave New Spirits said, “I’m delighted to have the opportunity to work with Organic Architects and Frilli to develop a distillery to produce a truly great Campbeltown spirit. To combine traditional artisan methods of whisky-making with the latest green technology is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
Joint owners of Brave New Spirits and the new Witchburn Distillery, Adam Hochul and Alexander Springensguth, added, “We are looking forward to becoming part of the community, contributing to the already worldwide reputation of Campbeltown whisky. We could not find a better location to build our first stillhouse. The distillery is a great addition to our existing portfolio of internationally recognised brands of Scotch whisky, but also an opportunity to give back to the outstanding community of Scottish whisky distillers.”