New £10m Ardgowan Distillery design passed by planners

Ardgowan Distillery's proposals for the site at Bankfoot include a 'modern Nordic long hall' and a glass-walled 'sky platform', which will overlook the River Clyde.

In June last year distillery bosses revealed that the project had been backed to the tune of £8.4m, with the investment being led by international whisky expert Roland Grain.

Mr Grain says the development will help put Inverkip on the map and stand out as a 'cathedral to whisky'.

The new designs use low environmental impact composite cladding, timber and steel materials to create a light-filled space.

The plans, which were submitted in December, superseded previously-approved designs.

They also include proposals for retail units, a farm shop, a microbrewery and a cafe and restaurant.

Design documents submitted alongside the application say that the building will be a 'landmark' in the area.

The documents state: 'The intention is that the building will act as a landmark for passers-by on the highway, for the entire region and for the whisky community, whilst also blending in with the colours of the surrounding landscape.

"It does so due to the striking building shape and customised facade pattern.

"Through several glass facades and building-cuts the modern production process becomes partly visible from the outside.

"For a more detailed look, visitors can come up close during a visit and enjoy a marvellous view of the area from the 15-metre high viewing platform."

Permission for the new proposals has been granted subject to no fewer than 33 conditions being met, includding requirements to carry out various surveys of the surrounding area.

Council officials said the development represented a 'significant investment' which would bring 'economic benefit' through both the distillery and its tourist functions.

They have deemed the development 'appropriate' for the greenbelt site.

Ardgowan Distillery chiefs hope to have the distillery operational next year.