The £12 million project, which was approved in January this year, will see the Rosebank chimney retained along with other historically significant buildings, while the distillery itself will be a contemporary design and run on the most energy-efficient lines possible.

A ground-breaking ceremony marked the start of the facility’s redevelopment under new owners Ian Macleod Distillers.

Mike Younger, finance director of Ian Macleod Distillers, said: “This ground-break is a milestone – it marks the start of a new and exciting chapter for both Rosebank and Ian Macleod Distillers.

“Our vision was to bring this quintessential Lowland single malt back to life.”

ISG is expected to complete the work in summer 2021.