Scotland’s Cabrach Trust has received permission from Moray Council’s planning officials to build a distillery and heritage centre in the region.

The trust is planning to build the centre with an investment of £5.3m. Construction is expected to begin next year and scheduled for completion by 2020.

Cabrach Trust executive director Sue Savege said: “The distillery and heritage centre are at the heart of our plans to regenerate the Cabrach, which is a beautiful but remote part of Moray that has seen a huge decline in population over the years.

“We are delighted the application has been approved and are looking forward to seeing the plans reach fruition for this important region in the story of Scotch whisky.

"Our new centre will help sustain the local economy by bringing in visitors and creating 12 jobs."

“Our new centre will help sustain the local economy by bringing in visitors and creating 12 jobs, including training opportunities.”

According to the trust, the new distillery will be incorporating production methods that were used in the early 19th century.

Savege further added: “We aim to eventually produce 150,000 bottles a year, so it is crucial we get the ingredients right.”

The proposed heritage centre will feature a cafe, exhibition spaces for public and private hire, and a gift shop.

Cabrach Trust is planning to launch an offer next year, allowing supporters the chance to get involved by owning shares in the operation.

Image: Cabrach Trust obtains approval from Moray Council to build a distillery and heritage centre. Photo: courtesy of The Cabrach Trust.