Works are progressing to build Weymouth’s new Marks & Spencer store.
Machinery can now be seen carrying out works for the new out-of-town development at the Weymouth Gateway retail park.
As reported M&S is to leave its town centre premises in St Mary Street and move to this new, bigger site.
The new building will be double the size of the town centre M&S, which will close when its lease expires in 2027.
Sixty jobs from the town centre store will be switched to the new building, with an additional 45 jobs likely to be created.
There has been some concern about the loss of the town centre M&S with fears that other stores could follow and look for out of town sites.
But the Weymouth BID group (We Are Weymouth) says it is currently in talks with other retailers interested in the existing site in St Mary Street.
Dawn Rondeau-Irvine, Chief Operations Officer at We Are Weymouth, said: “The plans for a new M&S at Weymouth Gateway are a strong indicator of continued confidence in our town’s future.
“This investment not only secures existing jobs but creates new opportunities, demonstrating a clear commitment to growth and long-term stability in Weymouth’s retail economy. We are also in positive talks with other retailers interested in the existing site in St Mary Street.
“As a key anchor brand, a much larger M&S will attract increased footfall to Weymouth, supporting neighbouring businesses and helping to strengthen our broader economic ecosystem. We welcome developments like this which reinforce our town’s appeal as a destination to live, work, shop and invest in. This is yet another positive step for Weymouth’s evolving retail landscape.”
M&S will join Dunelm, B&M, Costa, and McDonald’s which are also situated in the retail park, as well as Aldi which is located on the opposite side of the road.
READ MORE: Marks and Spencer reveal plans to relocate to huge new store
READ MORE: Works to Weymouth Primark store with jobs advertised
As reported, the planning application for the new store 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 financial contribution to support Dorset Council’s e-bike hire scheme.
Branded signage is now concealing the works to the building in Westham Road.
There is also a QR code displayed on a board which leads to the company's careers page, however, at the time of writing there are no jobs displayed for Weymouth.
