Scottish whisky giant Chivas Brothers reveals plans for new distillery on Islay

Plans have been revealed for a new distillery on Islay – which would see a drinks giant add whisky from the island to its portfolio for the first time.

Chivas Brothers and Islay Estates have submitted an application for planning permission to Argyll and Bute Council for a site at Gartbreck Farm in Bowmore.

Visitor facilities form part of the proposal, along with various infrastructure works, with the project aiming to make a “significant positive contribution” to Islay.

A decision is expected from the authority’s planning officers by late March, with the public able to view the plans and submit feedback.

A design statement by planning agents North Planning and Development said: “The proposed new distillery marks the first time Chivas Brothers will introduce an Islay whisky to its Scotch portfolio, rounding out its offering of globally recognised malts and blends which include The Glenlivet, Royal Salute, Chivas Regal and Ballantine’s.

“Once operational, the proposed distillery will focus on the production of Islay single malt, celebrating the region’s distinctly smoky and peated profile.

“Our client’s proposed investment at Gartbreck signals their long-term intent to become part of the fabric of Islay, as it has been for decades through Speyside and the surrounds.

“The project ambition is to develop a new distillery which makes a significant positive contribution to the Isle of Islay.”

The statement added: “The proposed distillery includes relatively modest visitor facilities. The distillery will accommodate tours for visitors and includes associated shop and tasting space.

“The distillery has been designed to accommodate six tours per day with each tour having a maximum of 12 people. No café space is included within the proposals.

“In terms of visitor numbers, the intention [is] to cap this at a total of 72 guests per day. Visitor numbers will be seasonal with visitor numbers expected peak in the spring and summer months.

“It is also anticipated that the proposed distillery is unlikely to generate any new ‘net’ visitors to Islay, with visitors drawn from those already choosing to visit Islay.”

To view the plans, visit the council’s planning portal at argyll-bute.gov.uk and use the reference number 24/01898/PP.