Distillery protected by flood scheme

AN ELGIN distillery can progress with a multimillion pound development now it is safe from flooding.

Glen Moray, on the western outskirts of the town, has been hit several times over the last few years – the most recent in 2009 – when the River Lossie burst its banks, washing away empty whisky barrels.

Over the last nine months a 100 metre reinforced concrete wall has been built to hold back floodwater, along with a 215 metre earth embankment.

Glen Moray manager Graham Coull said it was ironic that the River Lossie, from which the distillery draws its water supply, had occasionally proved to be a troublesome neighbour and he was relieved the flood prevention measures were now in place.

He added: "September 2009 – the last time we were flooded out – is etched in my memory and it is reassuring now to know that the work here has been completed.

"We have worked closely with the council and the flood alleviation team and I’m pleased to say that the flood works were carried out without disruption to everyday distillery operations."

With the defences now in place the distillery is now in a position to progress plans that would see production at the distillery double over the 12 to 24 months.

For the full story and to find out how you can get a tour of the Elgin Flood Scheme, see ‘The Scot’ print version.