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# 'Fantastic news for Ipswich': Council leaders back M&S expansion plans
- URL: https://www.ipswich.co.uk/fantastic-news-for-ipswich-council-leaders-back-ms-expansion-plans/
- Published: 2024-11-21T12:26:39.000Z
- Updated: 2026-03-16T15:29:44.000Z
- Description: Local leaders have welcomed M&S's commitment to Ipswich as the retailer announces plans to maintain its town centre presence while opening a new store at Copdock. The development will support Suffolk farmers and create new jobs.
- Author: Oliver Rouane-Williams
- Tags: News, Town Centre & Waterfront, Councils, #article, Neil MacDonald, Ipswich Central, M&S, #Import 2026-03-16 14:45

**Why it matters:** The multi-million pound investment represents a significant vote of confidence in Ipswich's retail sector, combining town centre preservation with new development.

**The big picture:** The proposal would see M&S:

- Create over 90 new local jobs
- Open a 60,000 sq ft store at Copdock by summer 2027
- Maintain its Westgate Street town centre location
- Work with local suppliers, including 260 Suffolk-based farmers

![How the new M&S Copdock store will look](https://storage.ghost.io/c/29/1e/291e4b7f-e551-4458-b546-61963954b22f/content/images/2026/03/1732196102-marks-spencers-copdock-plans-4.jpg)

How the new M&S Copdock store will look (M&S)

**Between the lines:** The deal involved coordination between Ipswich Borough Council and Suffolk County Council, with both authorities selling land to enable the development.

**What they're saying:** "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," said Councillor Neil MacDonald, Leader of Ipswich Borough Council.

Will Smith, M&S Property Director, called it a "unique opportunity" that would create "one of the most modern \[stores\] in the UK."

Ipswich Central CEO Lee Walker said it was “pleasing to hear M&S plan to continue to have a major presence in the Ipswich area," highlighting the importance the company continued to maintain a high street presence.

He added that is was "especially pleasing against a backdrop of Marks & Spencer choosing to close stores in many high street locations right across the country.”

**Details:** The proposed store would include:

- M&S Food hall
- Clothing department
- Beauty section
- 80-seat café
- 15 disabled parking spaces
- 15 parent and child bays
- Access via bus routes 13 and 20

**The bottom line:** The development signals M&S's long-term commitment to Ipswich while – most importantly – preserving its town centre store.

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