Loch Lomond Group has received planning permission for — and begun construction on — a new distillery and visitor centre, which will become the brand home for its whisky brands.

The multi-million-pound distillery and visitor centre will be located in the village of Luss, on the banks of Loch Lomond in Dumbartonshire. Loch Lomond Group was granted permission by Argyll and Bute Council and Luss Estates to repurpose an old smokehouse and the surrounding land. 

The new location will be the brand home for Loch Lomond Group's whisky brands, which includes Loch Lomond, Littlemill, and Glen Scotia. It will also operate as a distillery for its Ben Lomond Gin. 

Visitor attractions at the site will include guided tours, whisky and gin tastings, food and drink, and a retail space where the company will sell its whiskies, merchandise, and “unique product editions and prestige expressions.”

Colin Matthews, founder and CEO of Loch Lomond Group and director of the Scotch Whisky Association, reflected on the development in the context of industry challenges: “This significant multi-million-pound investment in a new distillery and visitor experience marks another major milestone for the Loch Lomond Group.

“The investment comes despite the challenges facing our industry and it reflects our confidence in the local community and the long-term resilience of Scotch whisky and distilling in Scotland. However, it comes at a time when the UK government’s ill-conceived tax hikes, broken promises of support, and unfair regulations are creating major obstacles for distilling in Scotland to remain competitive.”

He added that the government should take a “common sense approach” to support the Scotch whisky industry, to enable economic growth and fair global competition.

Matthews continued: “The successful completion of this new project in Luss will allow us to share the rich heritage and natural beauty of the area which inspires all our spirits, with visitors from around the world.

“The development is a testament to our commitment to innovation, quality, and investing in the spirits industry in Scotland. The result will be a truly unique destination that supports the local community, creates new jobs, and showcases the very best of what we have to offer across the Loch Lomond Group.”