Glenkinchie Distillery, located in East Lothian, is planning to broaden its offerings by introducing a variety of events, including yoga sessions and traditional ceilidhs, as part of its strategy to diversify its activities. The distillery has submitted an application to the East Lothian Licensing Board to modify its license, which would allow for dancing, exercise classes, and the hosting of cycling and running events.
Additionally, Glenkinchie seeks to increase its on-sales capacity by 200 during these cycling and running events. The licensing application is scheduled for review by the East Lothian Licensing Board next week but has already attracted some controversy, with one local resident voicing concerns over potential noise and litter associated with the events.
In the objection, the resident expressed specific apprehensions regarding the proposed cycling and running activities, noting that such events would attract large crowds and vehicles, potentially leading to congestion and hazardous driving conditions in the surrounding area.
A report prepared by the board’s licensing standards officer detailed the proposed changes, which would also enable the distillery to host charity events, talks, lectures, and demonstrations, alongside holistic wellness activities such as yoga and Pilates. Ceilidhs and other community-focused gatherings would also be included, with the facility serving as either a starting or finishing point for races.
Last year, representatives from Glenkinchie successfully petitioned the board to remove a stipulation from their license that required them to notify neighbors two weeks in advance of any upcoming events. This condition had been established following local concerns regarding a newly developed outdoor garden area, which the distillery described as a “hefty burden.”
The licensing application will be considered by the board on Thursday, October 24.
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