M&S rejects complaints for Oxford Street redevelopment

Marks and Spencer (M&S) has reportedly addressed complaints surrounding its Oxford Street redevelopment plans by pledging that 95% of the materials in the existing Marble Arch building will be recovered, recycled or reused, amid opposition to plans to flatten the shop.

According to the Guardian, the retailer has promised that the redevelopment will involve improved public access and facilities, and that some materials would be reused directly on-site to “promote circular economy principles”, ahead of a planning inquiry that will start on 25 October.

Former communities secretary, Michael Gove, launched an inquiry into the future of the store in June amid opposition to M&S’s plan to flatten the building. However, M&S said that Westminster council and the Greater London Authority supported the scheme.

Opponents say the scheme, designed by architecture firm Pilbrow and Partners, would release almost 40,000 tonnes of carbon into the atmosphere.

Plans to redevelop the Marble Arch were first unveiled in March 2021, and involve the 160,000 square foot store being knocked down and replaced with a smaller department store and several floors of office space.

Retail Sector has contacted M&S for comment.