A PURPOSE-BUILT centre and woodland garden could be built for visitors to the new distillery coming to South Park.

Last year independent firm The Oxford Artisan Distillery (TOAD) was given permission to rejuvenate the former Grade II listed threshing barn south of Cheney Lane so it can once again it can be part of the manufacturing process of grain.

In an application newly submitted to the city council the company has also laid out plans to build a new visitor centre on the same site, near the junction with Warneford Lane.

Toilets and a cafe or restaurant, including a woodland garden and landscaping, would be provided for people in South Park to enjoy.

It is believed the whole project would create about 25 jobs.

In its design and access statement, the firm said: “As a Company, TOAD are passionate about creating an independent sustainable craft

distillery which will provide new opportunities within Oxford.

“TOAD has links with local businesses and existing tourist attractions, bsuch as Oxford Botanic Gardens, as well as long-established links with local charities.”

If granted permission, TOAD has pledged to donate a portion of its profits to mental health charity Response.

It has also suggested it could create work experience opportunities for students in local schools and those at Oxford Brookes University.

The deadline for the council to reach a decision is Monday, June 5.