8 Doors Distillery looks to expand its premises in John O'Groats
The owners of 8 Doors Distillery in John O'Groats have lodged a planning application seeking permission to expand the outfit's existing warehouse and main building.
The application is submitted in the name of Kerry Campbell, who owns the distillery with husband Derek.
A supporting statement submitted with the application says the proposed warehouse extension "is key to address the increasing demands of our core whisky production and need for additional cask storage."
It says that the current warehouse will reach maximum capacity in 2024, with an extension overcoming any need to transport goods offsite for storage.
"This is better for the environment and better for the business," the statement says.
"This extension will not only alleviate the strain on existing cask storage but also creates a dedicated area for the storage of dry goods and packaging materials, streamlining our logistical processes and enhancing operational efficiency.
"We gain economies of scale as we are able to order items such as bottles and cardboard boxes in bulk thus reducing operating costs and our carbon footprint due to the reduced deliveries to site.
"This will also reduce vehicle movements to and from site.
"This expansion also represents a continued commitment to local economic development by creating further job opportunities associated with increased business activities.
"The proposed extension to the main building has been designed to seamlessly integrate with the existing buildings and surroundings of our business premises.
"The plans blend into the current structures, ensuring that the extension not only complements but also maintains the aesthetic appeal and functional coherence of our business site.
"Careful consideration has been given to minimise any potential disruption to the surrounding environment during the construction phase – all works will be within the site boundary. "
There was delight for the distillery on St Andrew's Day this year when 8 Doors was named among the winners of this year's Scottish Whisky Awards.
It received the Tourism Destination of the Year accolade at the event in Glasgow.
The distillery has been operating since September last year. King Charles unveiled a plaque to commemorate its official opening in August.