Russell Distillers Limited

Joanne Wright  in the Commercial Property Team assisted by the Construction and Engineering Team advised Russell Distillers Limited in relation to the acquisition of a long leasehold interest of a Grade II listed disused Victorian building on The Chatham Maritime Estate which was originally used to pump water out of the dry docks. We worked closely with the client and it’s appointed professional team and the firm’s construction department advising and commenting on the tender documentation through to lease completion. The transaction took over two years from the tender stage through to completion and after a three year restoration and refurbishment project the Copper Rivet Distillery has been bought back into use.

The client has transformed a dilapidated building into a wonderful landmark distillery making gin, vodka and whisky and the project received a “Highly recommended” Award from the RICS, Royal institute of chartered surveyors. The client is the only spirit maker in Kent, and one of just a few in the UK that undertakes the complete process of brewing and distilling from grain to glass. The client has won a number of international awards for its products and the distillery was officially opened on 1 December 2017 by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal.