Exciting developments at the Black Isle Brewery site amid local challenges
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New beginnings for Black Isle Brewery
The Black Isle Brewery is making significant strides in its development at the Inverness Shopping Park, marking a new chapter for the organic brewery and distillery. Just days before the arrival of a group of Travellers, construction activity began to emerge on the site, signaling the brewery’s commitment to expanding its operations.
The plans for this new facility were initially unveiled in May 2023 and received the green light from Highland councillors in February 2024, paving the way for this exciting venture.
Construction and community dynamics
Last week, the first visible signs of construction were noted as workers from Hydracrat, a contractor specializing in drilling services, commenced ground investigations.
Their focus on minimizing environmental impact aligns with the brewery’s ethos. However, the timing coincided with the Travellers moving their camp to the same location, raising concerns within the community. A member of the Travellers group assured local media that they had communicated with the landowner and planned to vacate the site by the week’s end, emphasizing their intention to leave the area clean and undisturbed.
Future prospects for the brewery
The Black Isle Brewery’s new facility is set to be a two-storey establishment that will house not only the brewery and distillery but also a shop, visitor center, bar, and restaurant. With an anticipated annual footfall of 20,000 visitors, the brewery aims to become a popular destination for both locals and tourists. This expansion is crucial for the brewery, which has faced limitations at its current location at Old Allangrange Farm. The new site will feature outdoor spaces, including a decked area and a courtyard garden, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Community support and challenges
The recent developments have been met with enthusiasm from the brewery’s supporters, who are eager to see the project come to fruition. However, the community has also faced challenges, including the recent encampment of the Travellers, which led to the postponement of local events such as the Park Run. The Travellers have faced criticism for leaving behind litter, but they have expressed their commitment to maintaining the site’s cleanliness. As the brewery moves forward, it will be essential to foster positive relationships within the community to ensure a harmonious coexistence.
