A GIN distiller is attempting to quell concerns that the expansion of his business will lead to disruption in the village where he is based.
Will Edge, aged 37, has been producing gin and other spirits at his Greensand Ridge Distillery on Shipbourne Road, between Tonbridge and Shipbourne, since August last year.
Last month he began offering tours of his premises to gin enthusiasts who are able to learn more about the distilling process and try their hand at making their own brew.
He submitted a retrospective planning application on January 17 to change the use of a hall to include corporate events for a maximum of 12 people.
But Hadlow Parish Council has objected to the move, citing ‘concerns over the detrimental effect on the residential amenity’.
In response, Mr Edge sought to reassure residents. He said: “I, one hundred per cent, understand that people looking at it on paper might think it means loads of people would be attending.
“But if those objecting come and see the place for themselves, I think it would put their mind at rest. My vision is not to conquer the world. My children live here so I have an interest in keeping it peaceful,” he said.
He explained that the sessions will enable people to distil their own gin in six small stills over two-and-a-half hours, allowing them to take their own creations home.
