Hotly anticipated plans to convert the former Toys R Us store on the outskirts of Ipswich into a Marks & Spencer supermarket have been submitted.
The plan’s submission comes after the retail giant bought the Copdock Interchange site’s freehold and long leasehold in 2024, taking over the unit which has lain vacant since 2018.
If successful, the £31m project would see the opening of a “show-stopping” 60,000ft food and clothing store, creating more than 120 jobs.
The existing entrance to the unit would be demolished, while the building’s height would be extended to accommodate a new mezzanine level.
A small extension would also be built to the rear to increase the size of its service yard.
Other features would include an 80-seater cafe, alongside the business’ usual food, clothing and beauty offerings.
Speaking at the time of the land’s sale, M&S’ Property Director Will Smith said the store would be “one of the most modern in the UK”.
He added: “At the Copdock site, we have a unique opportunity to create a brand-defining M&S store in Ipswich alongside our existing Westgate Street presence and grow our footprint across East Anglia.
“We are confident that an M&S at Copdock Interchange would be a brilliant shopping destination and a fantastic investment in Ipswich and the local community.”
Also speaking at the time of the sale, Ipswich Borough Council Leader Neil MacDonald said a deal has been made to secure the future of M&S’ existing store in Westgate Street.
He added: “This is fantastic news for Ipswich.
“Ipswich gets the best of M&S with a new store at Copdock and a town centre store – something many other towns and cities can only dream of.”
While plans have been warmly welcomed by Ipswich Borough Council, the plot’s location sees it fall under the remit of Babergh District Council.
Babergh will have until October 7 to deliberate on the application before making its decision.
If approved, construction would be set to begin in July 2026, followed by the store’s opening in Autumn 2027.