Pioneering brewery lined up for Abergavenny

Craft brewer Drop Bear Beer Co has submitted plans to build a carbon neutral alcohol-free brewery on a farm near Abergavenny which was once home to a cidery in the 18th century.If given the go-ahead by the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority, Celliwig Farm on the outskirts of Abergavenny will become home to Drop Bear’s brewery – a move that would allow the business to increase production and create jobs in the locality.The proposed development and growth of the company represents an equity investment £1.9m.Dating back to the 17th century, the Celliwig Farm incorporates a variety of ancient and more modern buildings. The farm includes heritage cider apple trees, and one of the largest commercial orchards of Medlars, a medieval fruit.Drop Bear’s proposed brewery would transform one of the farm’s more modern buildings, while complementing the farm’s history and location.If given the green light, the brewery also plans to support other local drinks producers through contract production and packaging services.The company’s aim to create a ‘green brewery’ is being supported by a £92,000 grant from the Welsh Government’s Decarbonisation and Covid Challenge Fund.