THE Isle of Arran looks set to have its first commercial heliport - after planning permission was granted to Arran Brewery last month.

The decision was made on December 14 and this week Arran Brewery’s Managing Director has explained what will be happening with the helipad, including VIP trips to the island.

The site, between Kilmory, and Kildonan, is associated with the Arran Brewery and is to aid bringing VIP visits to the Brewery and Distillery.

It may also attract golfers to the many courses on Arran.

MD of the Arran Brewery, Gerald Michaluk, said “I am very pleased at the decision of the council and the building will be stone clad and in keeping with the natural beauty of the island.

“Helicopters will be able to refuel on the site but no hangers nor maintenance is being provided so it is really just a pick up and drop off terminal.

“Local hotels and business will be able to use the site.

“Our sister company HJS Helicopters in Aberdeen has been instrumental in helping with the aviation side of the application and will help co-ordinate the flying side of the operations on Arran.”

The principle shareholder of the Arran Brewery is also the majority shareholder in HJS helicopters with operates from its own heliport in Aberdeenshire providing flight training and co-ordinating commercial operations.

The site is known as Drumla and was formally operated by the Lighthouse Commission to service the building of the Pladda lighthouse.

The site was acquired some time ago with this purpose in mind.