Deputy prime minister Angela Rayner is being called to approve plans by M&S to scrap its Oxford Street flagship.
Rayner is currently reviewing the controversial proposals, which were previously blocked by the Conservatives, This is Money reported.
The food and fashion giant wants to demolish its flagship site near Marble Arch, London, to build a bigger ten-storey retail and office block in its place.
M&S operations director Sacha Berendji argued: “Unlocking this investment would send a clear message that the planning system will support sustainable growth.”
Related Story
In July 2023, Michael Gove rejected the retailer’s redevelopment plans to demolish the Art Deco building.
In response, M&S boss Stuart Machin called the decision was “laughable” and “utterly pathetic”, adding that the ruling meant that he must now review its future on London’s Oxford Street, considered the prime retail location in the country.
The plans were blocked over concerns that the public benefits of the proposal did not outweigh the harm to nearby landmarks, including the grade II listed Selfridges building and nearby conservation areas.
The proposal’s failure to reuse existing sources, such as converting the current buildings, and the scheme’s carbon footprint were also cited as reasons.
Click here to sign up to Retail Gazette‘s free daily email newsletter
