A whisky giant has announced £100million plans to build the world’s best distillery in Moray.
Hundreds of jobs could be created by proposals to give The Macallan an iconic new home on Speyside.
This dramatic image shows how a new production facility and visitor centre will rise from the luscious gardens of the Macallan Estate.
Last night, the firm that owns the brand – Edrington – said the investment would cement the drink’s position as one of the world’s most sought-after malts.
And local politicians said the “phenomenal announcement” was great news for Speyside and the whole of Scotland – and demonstrated “huge confidence” in Moray’s economic future.
The Macallan was founded in 1824 and was one of the first distilleries in Scotland to be legally licensed.
Edrington brought in world-renowned architectural firm Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners to build the new distillery and visitor centre. The firm said the new distillery would increase capacity to meet a growing global demand.
Work on the project is expected to begin in autumn next year and be completed in spring 2017, subject to gaining planning permission.
Edrington chief executive Ian Curle said: “This is a confident investment in the future of The Macallan and its home on Speyside.” The distillery proposal will retain the estate’s historic manor house.
Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead said the announcement was great news for Speyside and the whole of Scotland. “Edrington’s £100million investment will result in a breathtaking and iconic distillery and visitor centre which will create jobs and further enhance our global reputation for producing the finest food and drink,” he said.
Moray MP Angus Robertson said: “This is yet another major announcement from a major player in our iconic malt whisky sector and really underlines the strength of one of Moray’s most important employment sectors.
“Whisky is right at the heart of Moray’s visitor experience, attracting tens of thousands of people to our region every year. This is a hugely significant announcement, the impact of which should not be underestimated.” Councillor John Cowe, chairman of Moray Council’s economic development and infrastructure services committee, said the facility would have significant economic spin-offs for the region.
“Macallan is an iconic brand known the world over and we are privileged that its home is here in Moray,” he said.
“This is an exciting announcement and I wish the company all the very best with this visionary development in Moray’s whisky heartland.”
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