Next eyeing old Marks and Spencer for new West Midlands shop on retail park near M6 and M6 Toll
Next is eyeing the former Marks and Spencer unit on the Orbital Shopping Park in Cannock. Now an application has been lodged with Cannock Chase Council to convert the vacant unit.
In November, M&S relocated to the former Homebase unit and began trading at the beginning of December. Now Next wants to install a mezzanine floor and widen the range of products on sale. The new floor will be used for clothing and footwear.
Orbital Shopping Park boasts shops including Asda, Boots Costa Coffee, JD Sports, McDonald’s and River Island, and is within easy reach from Birmingham as it lies close to the M6 Toll and M6.
External alterations are also planned including new double-height glazing on either side of the entrance as well as new entrance doors and side screens. Separate permission for advertising will be obtained at a later stage.
The nearest Next unit is located at the McArthurGlen Designer just over one mile away. It is hoped that the changes will significantly increase natural light which will create a more welcoming environment.
The application documents state: “This application seeks planning permission for external alterations to the front elevation of Unit 4 at Orbital Retail Park in Cannock. The proposed external alterations to Unit 4 are required to facilitate the occupation of the Unit by Next Plc.
“The proposed works are entirely acceptable and fully accord with local and national policy requirements for developments to be of a high standard of design.”
The application and all supporting documents can be viewed on Cannock Chase Council’s planning portal under reference number CH/26/002. The application is currently under consideration by planning officers.
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