The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)
Controversial distillery upgrade plan gets boost
Invergordon: Planners back £6m scheme despite objections
Plans for a multimillionpound upgrade at a Highland distillery have been recommended for approval by council planners.
Whisky giant Whyte and Mackay want to instal the anaerobic digester at its facility in Invergordon.
The proposal is part of a wider modernisation scheme at the plant – and the Glasgow-based company has previously warned that jobs will be lost as a result.
However, the company say that the new plant will help secure the futures of 100 people, as well as investment worth £6million to the local economy.
The proposed development has attracted considerable public attention – with more than 100 representations.
Atotal of 94 are in favour, while there are seven objections and one neutral comment.
Concerns included the proximity of the large tanks to existing houses, visual impact and unwanted odours, noise and dirt.
Supportive comments included the economic benefit, saying the digester is required to secure the site’s long term future.
Local MSP Gail Ross carried out a survey of local residents after the plans first came to light.
She said: “I became concerned when my constituency office in Invergordon had many visitors, all of whom were worried about the plans for the anaerobic digester at the distillery.
“I am sympathetic to the concerns of the distillery, given that they are competing in a world market, however, Ihave today written to them to appeal to their sense of corporate responsibility.
“I have also asked Highland Council to consider the community when examining the application for planning permission.”
“The vast majority of my constituents are happy that investment is being made in the distillery and welcome the anaerobic digester, however, job losses will occur.”
The new plant will require the demolition of a number of existing buildings, which will be rebuilt elsewhere on the site.
Ian Mackie, production director at Whyte and Mackay Invergordon, said: “Our plans to transform the Invergordon grain distillery represent a significant investment for Whyte and Mackay which protects the future of the site for the next generation employing approximately 100 people and contributing £6million to the local economy.
“Since announcing these plans late last year, we have made good progress consulting with colleagues, colleague representatives, the community and local stakeholders.
“This consultation process is still ongoing and we have been pleased with the response which has been broadly supportive. We now await the decision of the planning committee.”