ELIXIR Distillers co-founders Sukhinder and Rajbir Singh have had a planning application for an Islay distillery accepted by Argyll and Bute Council.

The plans combine elements of tradition and modernity in design and production, featuring an exterior that keeps with the traditional look of the other south coast distilleries on the island, alongside some “modern touches”.

The interior will include floor maltings capable of supplying more than 50% of the full one million LA capacity of the distillery.

On-site housing, a visitors centre and a multi-purpose educational facility are also listed in the proposals.

It is hoped an apprentice programme will be launched in order to train the next generation of distillers, and the distillery intends on working with the local community and Scotch whisky industry in a bid to create initiatives to support the environment and people of Islay.

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The team is planning to break ground this year, with the name of the new distillery being announced at a later date.

Sukhinder said: “The news that our planning application has been accepted is fantastic. We’ve worked closely with the Argyll and Bute planning committee to create plans for a distillery that fits into the landscape and supports the community.

"We want to create whiskies that inspire both the people of Islay and Islay whisky fans worldwide, enhancing the already glowing reputation of Islay whiskies, while also becoming an integral part of the community.”

Oliver Chilton, head blender at Elixir Distillers, added: “We take great pride in being able to learn, as whisky enthusiasts and use that knowledge as a guide to find and bottle great whisky, including our independent bottlings brands Port Askaig and Elements of Islay.

"Having our own distillery will be a fantastic opportunity to apply the same methodology and passion for flavour in a drive to make truly great spirit to enhance the incredible reputation that Islay single malt already has.”