The news that Marks and Spencer is to open a new superstore while retaining its town centre presence in Ipswich has been widely welcomed.
The retail giant is to build a 60,000 sq ft superstore on the site of the former Toys R Us at Copdock - but will retain town centre presence although that is expected to be smaller than the current Westgate Street department store.
The company has agreed to a 10-year deal with the borough council to stay in the town centre - the borough's property arm owns the former Toys R Us store.
Most shoppers gave a welcome to the news on our social media pages yesterday - they liked the idea of a new store with its own car park while they were pleased the company would stay in the town centre.
The company hopes to open its new store in the summer of 2027.
The news was welcomed by Ipswich Central, which represents businesses in the heart of town.
Its chief executive Lee Walker said: “It’s pleasing to hear M&S plans to continue to have a major presence in the Ipswich area, both opening a new store and critically maintaining their high street presence.
“That a town centre store will remain for at least a decade is welcome news for Ipswich high street shoppers, who have a loyal and longstanding affinity with the store.
“This reassurance is especially pleasing against a backdrop of M&S store closures in many locations right across the country.”
Ipswich MP Jack Abbott also welcomed the news, saying: “This is a hugely welcome news as we look to revive Ipswich.
“After much speculation, this deal secures the future of one of the country’s much-loved retailers on our high street, as well as delivering a multi-million pound investment which will revive a derelict site at the gateway to our town, and create nearly 100 new jobs for local people.
“This agreement is good for our local economy, good for local people, and it is good for Ipswich.
“My thanks go to Ipswich Borough Council for their hard work in securing this crucial investment, to Suffolk County Council for playing an important role on the Copdock site, and to M&S for starting an exciting new chapter in their relationship with our town.”
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