A long-anticipated project for a new brewery and taproom in Pitlochry has received its final judicial approval, clearing the path for Wasted Degrees Brewing to establish its expanded operations in the Perthshire town. The decision, handed down by the High Court, dismisses a second legal challenge that sought to prevent the development from proceeding.
The plans for the brewery, located adjacent to the historic Bobbin Mill Gypsy Traveller site in Pitlochry, had faced staunch opposition. Roseanna McPhee, a resident of the Bobbin Mill community, spearheaded the legal efforts, expressing deep concerns that the presence of a taproom would lead to increased harassment of Gypsy Traveller families by visitors. Additionally, the initial objections included worries about potential damage to ancient woodland surrounding the proposed site. The Lengthy Legal Battle Unfolds
This recent ruling marks the culmination of a protracted legal process. The first attempt to overturn planning permission granted by Perth and Kinross Council occurred in 2024. During that review, the council acknowledged a procedural misstep, admitting it had not adequately considered the environmental impact on the protected trees in the vicinity. This concession necessitated a fresh planning application and a subsequent review.
The re-submitted plans, approved by the council in February of this year, once again met with a judicial challenge from Ms. McPhee. Her legal representatives argued that Perth and Kinross Council had failed to provide sufficient justification for its renewed approval. They also contended that the council had not conducted reasonable inquiries into the proposed development’s potential effects on the local Gypsy Traveller population. These serious allegations were brought before Lord Cubie at the Court of Session for consideration. Judge’s Decision and Acknowledgment of Campaigners
Lord Cubie ultimately rejected both grounds of appeal in his comprehensive judgment. While ruling in favour of the brewery’s development, the judge took the opportunity to commend the dedication of Ms. McPhee and her supporters. He acknowledged the ‘interesting, important and even chastening’ evidence they provided, highlighting their commitment to keeping the rights and protected characteristics of the Gypsy Traveller community prominent in public discourse.
However, Lord Cubie clarified that, from a legal standpoint concerning planning applications, the concerns raised, while significant, were ultimately deemed ‘not core to the consideration of a planning application.’ This distinction underscored the legal framework within which planning decisions are made. Wasted Degrees Brewing: A Return to Pitlochry Roots
The co-founder of Wasted Degrees Brewing, Jack Low, expressed considerable relief following the High Court’s definitive judgment. He voiced his hope that the decision would bring a sense of closure to all parties involved, allowing the brewery to move forward with its ambitious plans.
Low reiterated the company’s commitment to community and good neighbourliness, stating, ‘We have always tried to do the right thing by people, and we will continue to do so.’ He also emphasized the overwhelming support the project has received from the wider local population, viewing the High Court’s decision as a vindication of their efforts and vision for the area.
The move to Pitlochry represents a symbolic homecoming for the brewing enterprise. Brothers Jack and Conall Low first honed their craft and launched Wasted Degrees from their parents’ garage right here in Pitlochry back in 2016. Since 2019, due to burgeoning demand and the need for greater capacity, their operations have been based in nearby Blair Atholl, a picturesque village nestled in the heart of Perthshire.
The rapid expansion of Wasted Degrees Brewing, which now proudly exports its craft beers to 14 countries, has necessitated a return to a larger, dedicated facility. The new woodland site, situated to the south of Ferry Road in Pitlochry, is envisioned to house a modern brewery, a welcoming taproom, and an inviting outdoor seating area, promising a new hub for local residents and visitors alike to enjoy finely crafted beverages in a beautiful setting.
The initial timeline had aimed for construction to commence in summer, with a grand opening slated for 2026. Low acknowledged that the extended legal delays have inevitably led to increased costs for materials and other operational expenses. Nevertheless, the Wasted Degrees team remains enthusiastic and looks forward to finally breaking ground on what they see as a significant step forward for their local grassroots business and a boost for Pitlochry’s vibrant economy. ‘It’s a return to optimism in terms of what we are planning to do in the future,’ Low concluded, signaling a renewed focus on growth and community engagement.
The plans for the brewery, located adjacent to the historic Bobbin Mill Gypsy Traveller site in Pitlochry, had faced staunch opposition. Roseanna McPhee, a resident of the Bobbin Mill community, spearheaded the legal efforts, expressing deep concerns that the presence of a taproom would lead to increased harassment of Gypsy Traveller families by visitors. Additionally, the initial objections included worries about potential damage to ancient woodland surrounding the proposed site. The Lengthy Legal Battle Unfolds
This recent ruling marks the culmination of a protracted legal process. The first attempt to overturn planning permission granted by Perth and Kinross Council occurred in 2024. During that review, the council acknowledged a procedural misstep, admitting it had not adequately considered the environmental impact on the protected trees in the vicinity. This concession necessitated a fresh planning application and a subsequent review.
The re-submitted plans, approved by the council in February of this year, once again met with a judicial challenge from Ms. McPhee. Her legal representatives argued that Perth and Kinross Council had failed to provide sufficient justification for its renewed approval. They also contended that the council had not conducted reasonable inquiries into the proposed development’s potential effects on the local Gypsy Traveller population. These serious allegations were brought before Lord Cubie at the Court of Session for consideration. Judge’s Decision and Acknowledgment of Campaigners
Lord Cubie ultimately rejected both grounds of appeal in his comprehensive judgment. While ruling in favour of the brewery’s development, the judge took the opportunity to commend the dedication of Ms. McPhee and her supporters. He acknowledged the ‘interesting, important and even chastening’ evidence they provided, highlighting their commitment to keeping the rights and protected characteristics of the Gypsy Traveller community prominent in public discourse.
However, Lord Cubie clarified that, from a legal standpoint concerning planning applications, the concerns raised, while significant, were ultimately deemed ‘not core to the consideration of a planning application.’ This distinction underscored the legal framework within which planning decisions are made. Wasted Degrees Brewing: A Return to Pitlochry Roots
The co-founder of Wasted Degrees Brewing, Jack Low, expressed considerable relief following the High Court’s definitive judgment. He voiced his hope that the decision would bring a sense of closure to all parties involved, allowing the brewery to move forward with its ambitious plans.
Low reiterated the company’s commitment to community and good neighbourliness, stating, ‘We have always tried to do the right thing by people, and we will continue to do so.’ He also emphasized the overwhelming support the project has received from the wider local population, viewing the High Court’s decision as a vindication of their efforts and vision for the area.
The move to Pitlochry represents a symbolic homecoming for the brewing enterprise. Brothers Jack and Conall Low first honed their craft and launched Wasted Degrees from their parents’ garage right here in Pitlochry back in 2016. Since 2019, due to burgeoning demand and the need for greater capacity, their operations have been based in nearby Blair Atholl, a picturesque village nestled in the heart of Perthshire.
The rapid expansion of Wasted Degrees Brewing, which now proudly exports its craft beers to 14 countries, has necessitated a return to a larger, dedicated facility. The new woodland site, situated to the south of Ferry Road in Pitlochry, is envisioned to house a modern brewery, a welcoming taproom, and an inviting outdoor seating area, promising a new hub for local residents and visitors alike to enjoy finely crafted beverages in a beautiful setting.
The initial timeline had aimed for construction to commence in summer, with a grand opening slated for 2026. Low acknowledged that the extended legal delays have inevitably led to increased costs for materials and other operational expenses. Nevertheless, the Wasted Degrees team remains enthusiastic and looks forward to finally breaking ground on what they see as a significant step forward for their local grassroots business and a boost for Pitlochry’s vibrant economy. ‘It’s a return to optimism in terms of what we are planning to do in the future,’ Low concluded, signaling a renewed focus on growth and community engagement.