Plans for a multimillion pound expansion of one of Scotland’s most famous distilleries is expected to be given the go-ahead next week.
Councillors have been urged to approve proposals for five new whisky storage warehouses at the Glenmorangie Distillery near Tain.
Work could begin early next year if the application is approved by Highland Council’s north planning committee on Tuesday.
Four of the warehouses would be about 48ft high and measure 144ft by 270ft, while another building would be slightly larger at 62ft high and measure 170ft by 262ft.
The development is proposed for a 18.5-acre site on the east side of the A9 heading north from Tain, to the south-east of four new warehouses which were approved in 2012.
No objections have been lodged against the scheme, with planning officials saying: “The warehouses whilst large buildings in themselves are of the same scale as those already built and will likewise be finished to match them in terms of colour and materials.
“Due to the landform within and around the site it is not considered that the siting of additional warehousing here will have a significantly adverse impact upon the visual amenity of the area.”
Planning officials have recommended approval of the application, subject to conditions.
Glenmorangie, one of Scotland’s best-selling single malts, is owned by Moet Hennessy, the French company behind Moet and Chandon champagne and Hennessy cognac.
The Edinburgh-based subsidiary, which also makes Islay-based Ardbeg whisky, posted an 11% rise in profits last year, increasing from £15.4million to £17.06million, with a turnover that was up by nearly 17% at £81.7million.
The Ross-shire distillery is playing a key role in the second Dornoch Whisky Festival, which runs from October 28-30, along with other well-known local producers Balblair, Dalmore, Glen Ord, Clynelish and Old Pulteney.
A spokeswoman for the distillery said: “Subject to planning permission, The Glenmorangie Company plans to embark on the next phase of our multi-million pound investment programme at our distillery in Tain.
“Construction is planned to start in the New Year.”
