St Martin's M&S to be modernised and expanded

The petrol pumps and canopy will be demolished to create 70% more retail space

Marks & Spencer will modernise its St Martin's store and expand it by about 70%, its operator has said.

M&S, which is operated by Creaseys in Guernsey, will demolish the existing petrol pumps to make way for the expanded retail space, as well as extending the car park to 130 spaces.

Jonathan Creasey, the company's chairman, said secure bike parking and solar panels would also be installed.

He said the changes would give customers "wider choice and a more modern customer experience".

He added the changes were "slightly overdue" but he "can't wait to get the first spades in the ground".

Design praised

The petrol pumps and canopy are being removed due to declining sales in recent years, making it too expensive to keep operating, Creaseys said.

West Quay Holding Ltd, a subsidiary of Creaseys, was granted planning permission for the development.

In their decision, planners said the design respected "the character and appearance of the conservation area".

They said the proposal "would not result in an over-provision of convenience retail", despite "a strong convenience offering" in the local area.

The Development and Planning Authority attached 12 conditions to the scheme, including the installation of solar panels and secure bike parking, and assurances on access, lighting and landscaping.