STIRLING could benefit from a £15 million investment thanks to a proposed new Scotch Whisky distillery by Wolfcraig.
The application lays out plans for a whisky experience that will incorporate the distillery, an interactive visitor attraction, private tasting room and a restaurant area.
Subject to planning approval, construction is expected to start in spring 2021 with the distillery set to open its doors in summer 2022. It is anticipated that the distillery will employ around 50 full-time staff.
The building is set to maximise its location, showcasing a stunning vista across to the iconic Wallace Monument and Stirling Castle. It will also harness the latest technologies to ensure sustainability is at its core.
The distillery will have the capacity to produce up to 1.5 million litres of spirit per year.
The development aims to further establish the city as a major food and drink tourist destination and will complement existing local attractions like Stirling Castle, the Wallace Monument, the Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre and Blair Drummond Safari Park. Wolfcraig Distillery also plans to operate a shuttle service between it, the train station and Stirling Castle to work closely with these hubs.
Wolfcraig founder Michael Lunn said: “In addition to producing a premium Highland Single Malt, we want to offer a state-of-the-art immersive experience for people of all ages and knowledge levels. Our research indicates the distillery could attract around 90,000 visitors in its first year given its proximity to Glasgow and Edinburgh.”
Michael added: “There has been excellent support for the project so far, from local community groups to the public sector and we are looking forward to taking the next step in Wolfcraig’s exciting journey.”
MP for Stirling, Alyn Smith, said: “My priority since my election is to support jobs and investment, and my view is that this is a great opportunity for Gargunnock, Cambusbarron and Stirling as a whole.
“Obviously there are details to be worked out and I will consult locals to ensure their views are heard but I have examined this proposal and I think there is great potential for a top quality, local, sustainable business which will be good news for farmers, locals and visitors.”
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