From Store To Still: Gin Distillery Planned At Old Ballymoney Mill

A planning application has been lodged with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council by applicant Ciaran Doherty that would see part of a historic Ballymoney mill transformed into a gin distillery.

Mr Doherty is seeking permission to convert the ground floor of the ‘Old Mill’ section at Balnamore Mill on Drumahiskey Road, currently in use as a store, into a distillery equipped with ancillary facilities.

The proposal involves a comprehensive programme of works to repair the internal and external fabric of the building, including stone façade improvements, installation of new doors and windows, and replacing a deteriorating flat roof with a shallow mono-pitched design and small parapet.

Solar panels would also be introduced, underlining a commitment to more sustainable energy solutions. Inside, plans include careful restoration of the original flagstone floors and jack-arch brick ceilings, along with the installation of modern stud walls and glazed partitions to support new distilling operations.

Although the ‘Old Mill’ itself is not listed, it is connected to a Grade B2 listed building. This ensures that the proposed refurbishment respects its heritage context while setting the stage for a forward-looking commercial venture.

Located at the southern end of Balnamore village, the site awaits consideration by the council’s planning officers in the coming months.