Mayor vows not to intervene in plans for smaller M&S in Oxford Street

By Jacob Phillips, Local Democracy Reporter

Marks and Spencer’s plans for a new Oxford Street store have edged closer as Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has chosen not to intervene.

Mr Khan has not blocked the landmark store from being bulldozed and replaced with a smaller shop.

The shopping giant wants to replace the nearly 100-year-old Edwardian art deco store with a 10-storey building including offices and a gym.

The new building will include a smaller shop and a pedestrian arcade.

Last week the mayor U-turned on his decision to not intervene in the application process after he was criticised by a contracted advisor.

Greater London Authority-commissioned expert Simon Sturgis warned the M&S redevelopment was directly at odds with the GLA’s own policy to prioritise retrofitting existing buildings rather than constructing new ones.

After rethinking, Mr Khan said the carbon footprint of the demolition had been well considered.

The planning application has now been sent back to Westminster City Council to get final approval.

Pictured top: London Mayor Sadiq Khan