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Plans for Donegal distillery approved

The town of Donegal in Ireland is set to welcome its first distillery in 175 years after a planning application received approval.

The completed distillery will produce whiskey, gin and poitín

An Bord Pleanála upheld the decision by Donegal County Council to grant full planning permission for Shliabh Liag Distillery in Carrick.

In 2016 the distillery launched The Silkie, a blended Irish whiskey and commissioned its An Dúlamán gin operation at the turn of the year.

The completed distillery will produce whiskey, gin and poitín and will also boast a visitor centre.

The plans were commissioned by Drioglann Shliabh Liag CGA and put forward by local architectural firm Corner Stone Architecture, led by partners Gavin Shovelin and Michael Hannigan.

James Doherty, managing director, said: “This is a momentous day for the area and brings the goal of reclaiming the distilling heritage of Donegal another step closer. The distillery will be a real boost for employment and tourism in the area.

“We will continue the development of The Silkie and launch An Dúlamán Irish Maritime Gin in the coming months while we further develop the distillery plans.

“We are really grateful to the local communities who have been vocal and committed in their support. Also to the friends, professionals, TD’s, local businesses and the parish councils who have stuck with us and offered their support and advice.”

Carleen Madigan, of the Irish Whiskey Association, said: “It’s fantastic news that Sliabh Liag have secured permission to build their new distillery. This is yet another example of the Irish whiskey success story which will boost tourism and employment in Donegal and support the local economy.

“Irish whiskey is the fastest growing premium spirit in the world. Global sales have increased by over 300% in the last ten years and have been growing by double-digits since the mid-1990s. Over €1 billion will be invested in Irish whiskey distillery projects between 2010 and 2025.

“New distilleries will bring new brands, adding more diversity to the category and will continue to drive the growth of the sector.”

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