Marks & Spencer looks set to come back to Newark after u-turn
Marks & Spencer looks set to be on the way back to Newark, in what is described as a game-changer.
The chain has gone full circle and once again agreed to become the anchor of a proposed development, Maltings Retail Park.
A planning application has been submitted to change the type of goods that can be sold from units that already have consent to be built on land near Northgate Retail Park.
The agent for the application said that what is being requested also allows for more than just a foodhall, which is what M&S said would replace the Stodman Street store, which closed in April.
“This will be a game changer if planning consent is secured,” said Ross Bowen, director with the scheme agents, WYG Environment Planning Transport Ltd, who said a contract with M&S was close to being signed.
“The return of M&S to Newark as the anchor store at the proposed Maltings Retail Park is a tremendously exciting prospect for all concerned.
“Subject to the council granting permission for changes to the approved scheme necessary to accommodate M&S, work on this key regeneration site will begin before the end of the year.
“Once completed the Maltings Retail Park will provide high quality, attractive retail facilities and generate a significant number of job opportunities for Newark residents.”
The closure of the Stodman Street store was part of a national shop closure programme aimed at realignment away from more general retail to foodhalls.
M&S had been due to become the anchor of the Maltings Retail Park development, but pulled out at the eleventh hour, turning its attention to Northgate Retail Park instead.
It confirmed the U-turn in a letter supporting the new application, saying interest was no longer proceeding and its board had given approval to move into Unit C on Maltings Retail Park.
An M&S spokesperson said: “We remain committed to serving local customers throughout our stores in Nottinghamshire.
“We will update the community as soon as we’re able to.”
READ MORE:
POLL: Were the district council right to refuse the £13m hotel-led developments at Farndon?