Marks & Spencer (M&S) Group Plc is legally challenging the UK government’s decision to reject its plan for a new Marble Arch store in central London, where M&S has been a presence for nearly a century.
The government denied M&S’s proposal to demolish its flagship art deco store and replace it with a modern version in July.
M&S contested the decision, citing flaws, and expressed concerns about its future on Oxford Street.
The rejection, made by Michael Gove, Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities, cited potential harm to protected landmarks like Selfridges and conservation areas, as well as environmental concerns and underutilization of existing resources.
M&S Operations Director Sacha Berendji criticized the decision, stating that planning policy was misinterpreted.
M&S is determined to challenge the decision to the fullest extent, as it believes there is an unjust bias against its redevelopment proposal.
CEO Stuart Machin described the decision as “utterly pathetic,” and Chairman Archie Norman expressed disappointment for M&S, Oxford Street, and inner-city regeneration in the UK.