Yahoo News What new M&S Outlet store means for town’s existing stores – and idea of opening date
MARKS and Spencer has confirmed the impact on its existing Warrington stores following the opening of a new venue in the town.
This is despite the chain already having a huge store at Gemini Retail Park, as well as a food hall in Stockton Heath.
The nearest existing Marks and Spencer Outlet stores are currently located in The Lowry in Salford Quays, Manchester City Centre and Cheshire Oaks in Ellesmere Port.
The new Warrington store is planned for unit four at Riverside Retail Park, off Bridge Foot near the town centre.
Many will have been wondering if this will have any impact on existing M&S stores in Warrington, and this has now been answered by the retailer, which has also given an indication of when the outlet store will open.
A spokesman said: “This is a new outlet store.
“It will not affect or impact any of the existing trading store estate, and it will complement the existing offer.
“It is anticipated that works will be complete this summer, and an opening date will be communicated closer to the time.”
As previously reported, plans have been submitted to Warrington Borough Council seeking advertisement consent for new M&S signage.
Marks and Spencer has applied for permission for two illuminated fascia signs, one non-illuminated sign and seven vinyl signs.
How the new store will look if signage is approved
Two signs would be to the front of the store, while the other would be to the rear and vinyls would be aside the store entrance.
Planning documents state: “Marks and Spencer will soon be opening an M&S Outlet store at unit four of Riverside Retail Park.
“M&S is keen to ensure its new stores are legible, uniform and easily recognisable to its customers.
“Advertisement consent is sought to reflect the most up-to-date M&S branding, in alignment with the company's wider renewal and new store openings programme.
“This involves the installation of two illuminated fascia signs showing 'M&S Outlet', and one non-illuminated sign to the rear.
“The national advertising campaign that the wider company is currently promoting will also be reflected on high-level vinyls mounted either side of the store entrance.
“Overall, the proposed signage at the proposed M&S Outlet store at Riverside Retail Park in Warrington would be an entirely appropriate use of the retail unit and wider retail park.
“For this reason, the proposals are considered to comply with the relevant policies.”
A supplementary application was also submitted seeking permission for minor alterations to front and rear elevations.
Documents said: “This application is required to ensure there is a high-quality and attractive entrance to the proposed store.”
It would involve the bricking-up of an existing door to the left of the customer entrance, which itself will be replaced with a new automatic glass door, as well as a new canopy to the rear.
