► Claims of “secrecy” within Stòras Uibhist
Stòras Uibhist has released further details of its plans to build a distillery on South Uist
The community landlord revealed its plans for the project several years ago but progress was slow.
The body is applying for a first tranche of funding towards the £10 million cost of setting up a distillery near the marina in Lochboisdale.
Stòras hopes to replicate the success of similar businesses in Islay and Harris.
Some 20 jobs would be created with an annual production of 300,000 litres of whisky predicted with hopes of more employment if the enterprise grows.
A visitor centre would be included in the complex with distillery tours laid on.
Heat generated in the production process would be converted into energy for use in the village.
One aim is to use island grown barley in the whisky.
Marketing will include exploiting the “whisky galore” fame of the area which is near the spot where the SS Politician.
Stòras Uibhist’s announcement of the distillery plans comes on the eve of nominations opening for director elections and days ahead of the body facing the community over criticism of the way the organisation is run. Around a third of the 798 membership signed a petition, forcing Stòras to arrange an EGM meeting.
► Claims of “secrecy” within Stòras Uibhist
South Uist whisky distillery plans
24 May 2018
