Perth and Kinross Council received an application for the distillery earlier this year, which would involve the renovation and extension of farm buildings. 

Rhiedorrach Estates is seeking a change of use at the Finegand Farm location for a craft distillery, visitor centre and maturation warehouse. Rhiedorrach Estates was recently provided with a scoping opinion from the council outlining environment impact information required under planning legislation, the Perthshire Advertiser reports. 

Earlier this year, Rhiedorrach Estates LLP consultant Alex Mackenzie Smith said: “Currently the buildings at Finegand are barely utilised and are in need of renovation. The idea for a high quality, sustainable whisky distillery came about after researching what benefits developing this site could provide for the local community and Rhiedorrach Estates.

“This proposal is still in the very early stages with the preapp currently lodged with Perth and Kinross Council and the Cairngorms National Park Authority planners. The aim is to create a sustainable business providing local employment and economic benefits to the Glen community. Its favourable location beside the A93 puts it in the perfect position to be central to the Glenshee economy.

“As well as offering long-term employment opportunities, this distillery will provide economic benefits to the whole glen community by using local suppliers where possible and hopefully becoming a tourist attraction.”

He continued: “Finegand Distillery is owned by Wayne and Heather Johnson who bought the site last year and are fully committed to playing their part in re-invigorating the glen. They see this distillery as not just housing a first class working distillery but also a café, visitor centre and shop, which will be tastefully developed to complement the local landscape.

“It must be emphasised that this project is still at the very early stages and discussions are underway to attract major investment.

“Rhiedorrach Estates aims to keep the local community abreast of developments at every stage and will provide opportunities for local consultation during the process.”

Perth and Kinross Council said this week the planning process was at a very early stage.