The green light means the Ardgowan Distillery Company can now advance its proposal to build a “world-class” lowland malt whisky distillery and visitor attraction on the estate, with plans to be operational in 2019.

The state-of-the-art facility will be built on the site of the old sawmill just south of the A78 Inverkip road, near the junction with the A770.

In considering the application for the development, which could generate new employment both during construction and more jobs once the distillery is operational, members of Inverclyde Council’s planning board agreed with a recommendation from planning officials for its approval.

The development will be a mixture of re-using old buildings and constructing new ones. Eighty-five parking spaces will be provided.

Inverclyde Council planning officers had recommended approval stating: “The proposed development represents a significant investment and will bring economic benefit through the main whisky distilling operation and it serving as a tourist attraction.”

Martin McAdam, the distillery’s chief executive, said: “Our goal is to produce a truly outstanding seven year old lowland single malt.

“In the coming weeks we will commence detailed design and procurement work for the construction of the distillery, and this will give us the opportunity to engage with local businesses and the public in order to develop our plan and start to employ the staff that will be engaged during the construction and operational stage.”