HERIOT-WATT University and beer-maker Innis & Gunn have partnered to submit plans for the build of a brewery and research centre at the university’s Riccarton Campus.
The development would see Innis & Gunn work with the Edinburgh-based university’s international centre for brewing and distilling (ICBD). A statement accompanying the plans read that both parties anticipate that a ‘wealth of benefits’ will arise from the partnership, and for the collaboration to be ‘on par’ with the university and brewer link-ups in Germany.
The statement continued, “Working with the International Centre of Brewing and Distilling opens up endless opportunities by combining Innis & Gunn’s creative abilities and the talent pool at the University, with a world class brewery. They hope to be able to research new beers and brewing techniques, develop pioneering carbon and water saving technologies and create new products that respond to changing demands from consumers, as well as facilitating in-work learning for students.”
The plans show that the brewery will be divided into a brewhouse, packaging section and warehouse area. Offices will be formed within the main brewhouse block over two floors to accommodate all of Innis & Gunn’s support staff and management, who will relocate from their current offices. A stand alone energy centre building has also been proposed for the northwest of the main building. It will use twin electrical sub-stations with photovoltaic panels on the flat roof.
A lawn will be included at the front entrance of the brewery, with the plans stating that it will be purposed for events, gatherings and for staff use.
