Glasgow to get new Scotch distillery

Plans to develop a £10 million Scotch distillery and visitor centre in the heart of Glasgow have been given the go-ahead.

A graphic representation of the Glasgow Distillery and Visitor Centre

The Glasgow Distillery and Visitor Centre, which will include a museum, café and tasting bar along with the working factory, will be built on the banks of the River Clyde.

The distillery is expected to create 25 new jobs, as well as employing around 300 during construction, which is set to be finished by autumn 2015.

The project forms part of the regeneration of the Clydeside area in the wake of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games that start in a few weeks on July 23.

It has been developed by a small group of industry experts, led by Tim Morrison – formerly of Morrison Bowmore Distillers and current proprietor of the AD Rattray Scotch Whisky Company.

Morrison said: “The city was once home to many whisky distilleries and we think The Glasgow Distillery will put Glasgow right back on the Scotch whisky map.

“Few people know the historical significance of the iconic Pump House building to the Scotch Whisky trade. In years gone by, this building controlled the entry bridge into the Queens Dock ensuring Customs and Excise could keep a close eye on goods in and out, including Scotch Whisky.

Morrison revealed his familial ties to the area under development, saying: “My great grandfather, John Morrison, built the Pump House in 1877 and it gives me great pleasure, to now have the opportunity to bring the building back to life, restore it to its former glory and give the building and the surrounding area the respect and status it deserves.”