A West Coast institution has been saved from permanent closure

In November last year DB Breweries announced it was planning to end its Greymouth brewery operation.

However the Grey District Council says an agreement has been reached where the bottling plant will be handed back to the district.

Mayor Tania Gibson says while she's sad about DB's departure, the outcome is hugely positive.

She says hopefully some new opportunities will be created for local craft breweries.

Gibson says details of the transfer are still being finalised.