M&S awaits a crucial decision on its Marble Arch store redevelopment plans.
- The decision from Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner is expected by 5 December.
- The proposal includes demolishing existing buildings to make way for a 10-storey structure.
- Previous approval was blocked due to concerns over its impact on local landmarks.
- M&S won a legal challenge earlier this year, reopening the path for its redevelopment plans.
Marks & Spencer (M&S) is set to receive a significant decision regarding its plans to redevelop its Marble Arch flagship. The high street retailer is awaiting the verdict from Deputy Prime Minister and housing secretary Angela Rayner, which is due by 5 December. The plans involve demolishing three buildings to construct a new 10-storey building featuring retail and office spaces.
Earlier this year, then housing secretary Michael Gove blocked M&S’s redevelopment proposal. The block was due to concerns that the public advantages of the new project did not outweigh potential damage to local heritage sites, such as the grade II listed Selfridges building and surrounding conservation areas.
Despite these setbacks, M&S CEO Stuart Machin strongly criticised the decision. He described Gove’s verdict as “utterly pathetic,” asserting that the redevelopment would benefit the area, a sentiment reportedly supported by leaders at Selfridges.
M&S contested Gove’s decision in court and was successful. In a ruling by High Court Judge Mrs Justice Lieven, errors were identified in Gove’s interpretation and application of planning policy, leading to M&S’s legal victory.
Following their court win, M&S remains vigilant as they await the outcome of their appeal, which could pave the way for opening ten additional stores as part of the retailer’s broader strategy.
The impending decision will be pivotal for M&S’s future plans at Marble Arch.
