Marks and Spencer store edges closer

Marks and Spencer store edges closer

28 June 2017

MARKS and Spencer is firming up its plans to open a new food hall in Downpatrick.

The company is looking to identify suitable premises as soon as possible and is keen to secure a town centre base for its investment which will create a welcome number of new jobs.

Last March, the Recorder exclusively revealed the world renowned company’s plans for Downpatrick and while Marks and Spencer has a policy of not commenting on rumour or speculation regarding new stores, it emerged this week that the company is particularly keen to open a new food hall in the town.

The nearest M&S stores are located in Lisburn and at the Forestside shopping complex in South Belfast.

M&S opened a new food hall in Carrickfergus recently which created 75 new jobs, but there is no indication of how many jobs would be created in Downpatrick if a suitable site can be identified. The former Top Shop and Houstons stores at the Grove shopping centre are available and may meet the needs of M&S as there access at the rear for unloading heavy goods vehicles.

The company’s interest in Downpatrick has created a stir among shoppers and local politicians who believe the arrival of M&S will encourage more big name retailers to invest in the town.

Councillor Gareth Sharvin met with M&S representatives last week and said it is his understanding the company wants to be based in the town centre.

The Downpatrick councillor met with David Leach, Marks and Spencer’s government affairs manager, to discuss the proposed new food hall and was greatly encouraged by what he heard.

He continued: “The discussion with David was very useful to understand where Marks and Spencer’s are currently at in their plans for a store in Downpatrick. During the meeting, the company representative reinforced Marks and Spencer’s commitment in opening a food hall in the Downpatrick area, although a suitable location has not yet been found.

“M&S have informed me it has agents working on this issue who have a detailed understanding of the company’s property requirements and the sites available locally.”

Later this week, councillor Sharvin will be meeting with the M&S agents to “fully understand and get a brief of their location requirements.”

He added: “I want to work with M&S, its agent and local landlords and landowners in sourcing a site and to bring another worldwide known brand to Downpatrick. This will be another great addition to our retail and employment market.

“I will be contacting other retail brands to highlight the great potential Downpatrick has and can provide to their respective organisations. I will also be meeting with Newry, Mourne and Down Council’s business development team to understand what plans it has in developing our local economy over the 

next number of years, not only for new ventures, but building on existing businesses in the area.”

After contacting Marks and Spencer a spokeswoman told the Recorder: “Marks and Spencer does not comment on rumour or speculation with regard to new stores.”