New £5m distillery to create jobs in Wales
The proposed development at the former council offices in Lloyd St will be the manufacturer’s first expansion from its site in Penderyn, Aberdare. The distillery and visitor centre are set to open by 2021, subject to planning permission.
The development has been offered £1.4m from the Tourism Investment Support Scheme and Food Business Investment Scheme.
Innovation and attraction
Commenting on the proposal, Penderyn Distillery chief executive Stephen Davies said: “We believe the distillery will allow us to introduce unique and innovative single malt whiskies, distilled in North Wales, as well as providing an attraction that will complement the already vibrant and diverse tourism scene in north Wales, and contribute towards extending the visitor season further.
“With our funding package now in place, we will be developing our proposals further over the coming months and engaging with stakeholders and the local community as we prepare our planning application.”
The site in Llandudno will be Penderyn’s second distillery, with a third planned for Swansea in 2022.
‘Gaining global reputation’
Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs Lesley Griffiths added: “Penderyn is a great example of how the Welsh food and drinks sector is thriving and gaining a global reputation.
“I’m pleased that we have been able to support Penderyn to develop their business enabling people across Wales and the UK to find out more and sample this award-winning product.”
The Welsh Whisky Company has been producing single malt Whisky under the Penderyn brand since March 2004 and has found success exporting to China, Russia and Australia.
Meanwhile, Artisan drinks producer Raisthorpe Distillery is investing in its production facilities with the installation of a new still as it continues to develop its ‘award-winning’ range of liqueurs, vodkas and dry gin.
