Marks & Spencer has attacked Michael Gove’s decision to stop redeveloping his Oxford Street flagship store as a “big political position”.
The retailer had secured the approval of Westminster City Council and the Greater London Authority to demolish the central London landmark and build a new 10-storey block.
But the Department of Leveling, Housing and Communities has taken control of the planning application amid concerns about environmental impact.
Sacha Berendji, director of property for the M&S group, said the company was “baffled and disappointed by Michael Gove’s baseless decision” and accused Leveling Up’s secretary of “political greatness”.
He added: “For a government supposedly focused on the leveling agenda, the call for this major investment in one of our most iconic commercial sites will have a gruesome effect on regeneration programs across the country at some point. that many city centers are lagging behind, and the real estate market is becoming increasingly precarious. ”
A DLUHC spokesman said: “This is a disappointing and misleading statement from M&S.
“Convocation decisions are made in accordance with established policy. It is right for the independent planning inspectorate and ministers to consider a project of this importance.”
The intervention comes after Mr. Gove issued the so-called Article 31 order forcing developers to suspend the project. It will now be referred to an independent inspection.
Activists have pressed against the plans, citing concerns about the amount of carbon released during the construction process.
Simon Sturgis, architect and adviser to the Greater London Authority, has warned that redevelopment would produce around 40,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide before the new building comes into use.
But M&S noted the findings of independent environmental consultants, who found that the new low-carbon building would more than offset the emissions from the redevelopment.
The dispute highlights the conflict between the leveling agenda of Mr. Gove and the government’s broader zero-net ambitions.
Ministers must also decide whether to take part in a £ 400 million project to rebuild ITV’s former South Bank studios.
Dee Corsi, chief operating officer of the New West End Company, said: “Achieving a bright and prosperous future for Oxford Street requires high levels of investment and development.
“It is vital that the city council and businesses redouble their efforts to work together to deliver the expected investment in the public sphere and ensure that there are progressive planning policies and licenses that enable companies to respond to changing customer trends. , offering innovative and future – proof buildings suitable for its purpose for a revitalized and dynamic main street “.