Work will start soon on creating Northumberland’s first whisky distillery and visitor centre after planners gave the ambitious scheme the green light.
The multimillion-pound development was first unveiled a year ago by the Ferguson family, owners of a number of businesses across the region including national haulage firm Fergusons.
They wanted to create a new attraction to bring more visitors to the area as a whole, while also creating jobs.
They will now revitalise the former Redpath’s Yard in Wooler, transforming it into the Ad Gefrin distillery experience, which would create 50 jobs.
The family said planning permission for the development of the distillery marks a significant milestone for the project, which it expects to become an exciting part of the region’s future economy.
Alan Ferguson said: “We are thrilled with today’s decision and so grateful to Northumberland County Council for supporting our vision. This project has been a long time in the making, and now it will come to fruition.
“Although the ambitious timescales we had planned may have taken a small dent, this means that we are now able to move forward with all the energy and enthusiasm that we have stored up.
“As well as commencing the demolition work on site in the next few weeks, this allows us to finalise requirements for the bespoke spirit stills with the manufacturers. They are integral to the future success of the distillery, and when they are installed and commissioned, the heart of the enterprise will really start to beat.”
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Planning permission provides the starting gun on the demolition and removal of the existing buildings and salvaging of the slates and external stone for re-use.
At the Ad Gefrin Distillery Experience, the public will be able to explore the story of the area and the ancient Kingdom of Northumbria, behind-the-scenes tours, a bistro, whisky tastings, retail and events spaces.
Ad Gefrin is also expected to stimulate new business opportunities as it builds on increased visitor numbers to the town.
At the heart of the venture will be the production of a new single malt whisky, which will be released after eight years, as well as niche spirits, which it hopes will be become local bestsellers and sell overseas.
Eileen Ferguson, whose family the Redpaths originally owned the site, added: “We are absolutely delighted to have secured planning permission and now looking forward to transforming the site.
“I want to give a big thank you for all of the residents and local businesses throughout what has been a six-month consultation process. We received 100% support and look forward to the first chapter of Ad Gefrin which begins now. We have had the prologue, and this is the action.
“The Ad Gefrin name has a long history and is appropriate to a renaissance and new buoyancy for the economy.
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“The Redpath and Ferguson families have been part of the fabric of the area for generations. Through our shop, restaurant and exhibition areas, we are totally committed to supporting Glendale by showcasing the best of Northumberland - such as food, drink, art and design.”
Peter Jackson, leader of Northumberland County Council, added his approval, saying: “The Ad Gefrin project is one of the most exciting and innovative schemes to have been devised in Northumberland for years. The county council is very happy to give its full support to something that will explore our vast range of history and further develop our fantastic visitor offer.”