A PLANNING application for a new distillery and micro-brewery in Luss is set to go live in the next few days.
The team behind the Glen Luss Distillery project say they expect their application to be published by the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority by August 31 at the latest.
The proposals went on show at an event at Luss Village Hall last Thursday, when around 50 people visited to find out more about the initiative, job prospects and community benefits.
According to the project team, a survey completed by 61 per cent of the members of the public at the event returned a 97 per cent positive response when people were asked whether they thought the proposal was a good one overall.
The company says it has also spoken to community representatives, tourism bodies, local businesses and the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority about its proposals, and also about associated traffic and parking management plans – a key concern for Luss residents and businesses going back many years.
READ MORE: Covid-19 emergency powers invoked to limit parking in Luss
The project’s operation’s director, Daniel Lewis, said: “The flow of pedestrians and vehicles through the village has been a crucial part of our logistics and business planning.
“We have taken expert advice and developed a site and business plan which aims to benefit the village, local community and visitors.”
The project, which will be the first brewery and distillery located within the boundaries of National Park itself if planning permission is secured, will use existing vacant premises in the centre of the village.
The proposals state that 26 jobs will be created, with a “significant number” to be recruited from within the local community, and that modern apprenticeships will also be provided.
READ MORE: Distillery plan set to create more than 20 jobs in Luss
Sales director Patrick Colquhoun said: “In addition to the local employment and community benefits, we are pleased to commit a further five per cent of profits annually, for an initial period of 10 years, to a community development fund for projects in the Luss and Arden area.”
Last month the company announced the appointment of two new directors to its board - Falkirk Football Club chairman Gary Deans and drinks industry professional Brian Woods.
The company previously said that subject to planning permission being received, it hoped to have the first phase of the project up and running by May 2021.
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