New community led Moray distillery in the Cabrach secures half a million pounds in funding
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
A NEW "one-of-a-kind" Moray distillery has secured £500,000 in funding as the project takes another step towards becoming a reality.
The distillery, which will be built in the rural community of the Cabrach as part of plans to regenerate the once thriving area, will be housed in the 19th century Inverharroch Farm buildings.
The funding, which was secured from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), will help cover the costs of construction works for extensive refurbishment which will be needed to bring the farm steading buildings up to standard.
The Cabrach, one of the most rural areas of Moray, was once famed for its whisky distilling history and is regarded by some as a birthplace of Scotland's national drink.
The area was once home to a population of over 1000. Today that number is less than 100.
But The Cabrach Trust, formed in 2013, is seeking to regenerate the area as a thriving, sustainable community and plans for the new £5 million distillery are central to that.
Jonathan Christie, chief executive officer of The Cabrach Trust, said: “This incredible investment from Highlands and Islands Enterprise is central to realising The Cabrach Distillery; a project which will serve as the lungs of our long term, transformational regeneration strategy for this important place.
"Beyond vital funding, the trust is excited to work alongside HIE as we deliver what we collectively believe has the potential to become an exemplar of community led, rural regeneration in action."
The distillery, once operational, will produce a unique heritage-led Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
And within eight years it is forecast to have an annual turnover of £3.4 million, providing employment for 12.5 full time equivalent posts as well as 50 volunteering opportunities.
All surplus profits from the venture will be reinvested back into the community.
Fiona Robb, head of strengthening communities with HIE’s team in Moray, said: “In addition to production, turnover and sales, the venture will contribute to community regeneration with significant social benefits and low carbon credentials.
"It will support new employment, alongside a sustained commitment to providing training and education.
"It will also enhance the region’s appeal to visitors and its reputation for quality food and drink production.
"I’m delighted we’ve been able to provide support and look forward to continuing to work with the Trust as they develop the venture."
The project has also secured £361,767 from the Scottish Government Just Transition Fund.
Beyond the distillery, a community learning, rural skills, and wellbeing programme forms an important part of the trust’s work.
This is further complemented by the completion of a brand-new all-abilities Discovery Trail, creation of a new Cabrach Tweed, and resurrection of the long lost Cabrach Picnic and Games.
