Decision on new Weymouth M&S store next week
The outlet would be part of the Weymouth Gateway retail park
A decision will be made next week on whether Weymouth will be a getting a brand new Marks & Spencer store.
Dorset Council will decide whether to grant planning permission for the multi million pound addition to Weymouth Gateway Retail park.
The new store will protect 60 jobs and generate 45 new roles.
M&S announced last summer it would be leaving its premises in St Mary's Street when the lease expires in 2027.
Matthew Hawke, Regional Manager for M&S, said:
"It’s fantastic that plans are progressing for our brand-new store. Our planned multi-million-pound investment in Weymouth is not only a sign of our commitment to the town but to delivering the best possible store for our customers here.
"At more than twice the size of our current location, we’ll be able to offer the very best of M&S. That means more products, more innovation and more of that M&S magic we’re known for.
"With the opening coinciding with our lease end, all colleagues will be able to move over to the new store or other nearby stores if they choose and we'll create 45 new local jobs."
Chris Newns, Director of Avercet, said:
"We’re proud that our regeneration of the Weymouth Gateway site has already created some 340 new year-round jobs and work for around 50 local contractors. And now, by supporting M&S’s plans to expand its presence in Weymouth, we’re not only helping to generate even more jobs, but attract more visitors to the town and increase its share of regional retail spend."
The planning application also includes 234 additional parking spaces including 10 extra EV charging points and covered cycle racks, and associated infrastructure and landscaping.
In addition, there will be a developer (Section 106) contribution to support Dorset Council’s e-bike hire scheme.