*Burren Distillers.
THE BURREN DISTILLERY has been granted planning permission for a new dry store and bonded warehouse at their site in Ballyvaughan.
The Newtown distillers have been granted permission for the “provision of extension to existing bonded warehouse and provision of new dry store, together with the provision of stainless steel holding tank for pot ale waste”.
Burren Distillers first began producing whiskey in 2019 where the distillers use the local landscape to their advantage in the production of premium whiskey. Locally grown malt as well as recycled rainwater from the on site wells is used to distil the whiskey. The whiskey is stored in barrels made of Irish oak and infused with locally made honey.
In February of this year, the whiskey makers applied for a development at their facility. Architect Michael Leahy stated in the application that the distillery “cannot continue in operation”, if the proposed development was not granted. The bonded warehouse is a revenue requirement in order to be licensed to sell whiskey.
In response, the planner’s report stated “Rural enterprises are vitally important to sustaining rural populations, supporting the rural economy and generally enhancing the fabric of rural society. The Council recognises that businesses in rural areas and their employees benefit from the high quality of life and the opportunities arising from the available capacity in local social, community and educational facilities”.
Clare County Council has granted permission for he development but has issued a number of conditions that must be adhered to. Due to the distillery’s unique location within the Burren, there are a number of environmental risks associated with the development. The planning department have outlined that “No pot ale waste or any other waste or by-product material from the facility shall be land-spread. All waste material, including pot ale waste, shall be stored in an appropriate manner on site to prevent any nuisance, odour or risk of pollution”.
Burren Distillers have also been ordered to pay a contribution of €5764.68 to Clare County Council in light of the “public infrastructure and facilities benefitting development in the area of the Planning Authority”. This contribution is to be paid prior to the commencement of the development with interest penalties to be added on if this is not paid.
