New 137 gin distillery to open in Newbury's Parkway Shopping

A Newbury gin maker has been given approval to create a new distillery in the town centre.

“That has just made my day,” said 137 Gin's Pete Lumber. “Business has been dreadful in January, so I am really cheered up by this, and can’t wait to get started.”

West Berkshire Council approved his plans to turn a shop in Newbury's Parkway Shopping – where he recently ran a successful pop-up 137 Distillery throughout December – into a gin palace.

“It's going to be called 137 Eat. Drink. Distill,” he added. “I hope to open up in April if I can get all the paperwork done in time.”

Mr Lumber said he can produce thousands of litres of gin a year from the new spot, and hopes to keep on with his award-winning produce.

Last year, he got a top award from Great Taste – the guild of gourmet food and wines.

He is based at The Newbury pub on Bartholomew Street, where he also has a gin distillery.

“I’ve just started making vodka,” he added. “It is up for a People’s Choice Award, so keeping my fingers crossed there.”