An Inverness brewery is seeking Highland Council permission to open a new taproom - with a promise of no music or entertainment
Dog Falls Brewing Co is seeking planning permission to open in Queensgate in the heart of the city.
Dog Falls Brewing Co has applied for change of use to convert the long-closed Semi-Chem chemists’ to a beer “taproom” selling its product and other selected beers - but without music or entertainment.
The brewery through planning agents Davidson Baxter Partnership Ltd, say in a supporting document to Highland Council: “The concept revolves around experiencing fresh beer from Dog Falls and selected other breweries in a setting where locals and visitors can talk, laugh, and interact with each other rather than being distracted by loud music or entertainment.”
Dog Fall proprietor Bob Masson explained the concept further saying: “We want to encourage a convivial atmosphere among the customers without the entertainment add-ons, and I know quite a lot of people like that idea. That area of town is pretty well covered for live music in any case.
“Inverness is a busy city particularly from April to October, and the centre is a very vibrant place, so we think it would be exciting to be part of that excitement and help drive it forward.”
The agents also say: “This proposal would enhance the current streetscape with the proposed extensive refurbishment and fit-out of the unit which has now been unoccupied since early 2023.
“It is proposed to create an engaging Beer Taproom which will showcase the ‘world class, local beer’ brewed in the city, providing a unique customer experience aligned with the growing demand for top-notch locally brewed beer.”
The planning statement adds: “The interior will be dramatic and industrial in style with large beer serving tanks featuring in the front of house zone which will dispense beers brewed by Dog Falls Brewing Co at their Lotland Place facility less than a mile from the Queensgate site. The frontage would be fully refurbished bringing a welcome uplift to the Queensgate street scene.
“This would be a unique addition to the thriving hospitality sector in the busy centre of Inverness and will provide an outlet for Dog Falls Brewing’s products in the heart of Inverness, supporting and facilitating the growth of a local small business.”
A “light food offer” is proposed with traditional and contemporary snacks to complement the beers with artisan breads, cheeses, pickles and even chocolate featuring on the menu which will all be sourced to support local food suppliers and manufacturers.
Around 12 full and part-time staff would be required.
The application is under consideration by council planners.
