Former M&S site could be used for flats

The site of a former Marks & Spencer store that closed last month after 56 years of trading is expected to be sold in February and could be used for flats.

Changing shopping habits contributed to the decision to shut the store on November 16, the retail giant said.

A report to the Crawley Borough Council overview and scrutiny commission has offered an update on what's next for the Queensway site.

"Council officers understand that the former Marks & Spencer store is expected to be sold in February 2025, and it is conceivable that the new owners may wish to bring forward proposals for residential and/or commercial space redevelopment on the site," it said.

Any such proposals would have to receive planning consent from the council.

The retailer is open to expanding in Crawley "should a suitable site become available" in the future, the report added.

Any new development would form part of the ongoing regeneration of the town centre, which has seen some £60m of schemes completed in recent years.

Members of the commission will receive an update on this regeneration programme on 13 January.

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