15th August, 2016 by Amy Hopkins

After receiving planning permission in 2014, work has now commenced on converting the Pump House building in Glasgow into a £10.5 million whisky distillery and visitor centre.

Owned by Morrison Glasgow Distillers Ltd, Clydeside Distillery, formerly called Glasgow Distillery and Visitors’ Centre, received planning approval from Glasgow City Council in July 2014.

The distillery will be located between the Riverside Museum and the Hydro Arena on the banks of the River Clyde and will create up to 25 jobs once it becomes fully operational.

Tim Morrison, formerly of Morrison Bowmore Distillers and current proprietor of the AD Rattray Scotch Whisky Company, spearheaded the project with the backing of a number of private investors.

Recently, the Scottish Investment Bank (SIB) joined the consortium of investors, contributing £2 million to the project.

“Our vision to build a whisky distillery on the banks of the Clyde, first conceived many years ago, is now set to become a reality,” said Tim Morrison. “Work has started on site and our first batch of spirit should be flowing before the end of next year.”

“The city was once home to many whisky distilleries and we think The Clydeside Distillery will put Glasgow right back on the Scotch whisky map. Few people know the historical significance of the iconic pump house building to the Scotch whisky trade.

“In years gone by, this building controlled the entry bridge into the Queens Dock ensuring Customs and Excise could keep a close eye on goods in and out, including Scotch whisky.”

He continued: “My great and Andrew’s great great grandfather, John Morrison, built the Pump House in 1877 and it gives me great pleasure, to now have the opportunity to bring the building back to life, restore it to its former glory and give the building and the surrounding area the respect and status it deserves.”

Building and civil engineering company McLaughlin and Harvey was awarded the contract to build the Clydeside Distillery. Several hundred jobs will be created during the construction phase.

Once open, the site will feature a café/restaurant, shop, distillery tours, whisky tastings and an interactive whisky experience. Clydeside Distillery anticipates 65,000 visitors a year.