M&S plans for empty House of Fraser store but shoppers have parking concerns

The high street retailer wants permission to put its branding on the three-storey anchor store

Bristol Live readers have been sharing their thoughts on the news that high street giant Marks and Spencer (M&S) has officially submitted plans for alterations to the former House of Fraser store in Cabot Circus, Bristol. This follows M&S's announcement last July that it would be making a return to Bristol city centre after the closure of its Broadmead outlet in 2021.

The former House of Fraser store in Cabot Circus will soon see changes as Marks & Spencer prepares to move in this autumn under newly-submitted plans.

The high street retailer is seeking permission to add its branding to the three-storey anchor store and make alterations to some entrances and fire exits.

Last July, M&S revealed plans to return to the city centre following the closure of its Broadmead outlet in January 2022, after a 70-year presence.

The company is set to invest £21million to transform the large unit, which will include a spacious cafe and grocery supermarket, along with clothing and home goods sections.

House of Fraser had a 16-year tenure before closing its doors in August 2024.

In planning documents, M&S’s agents said: “The proposed alterations are required to support M&S’s significant investment in Bristol’s city centre and occupation of Cabot Circus’s anchor store.

“The proposed external alterations will enhance the appearance of the store and support the occupation of the key anchor store within Cabot Circus, enhancing the primary shopping centre and wider city centre.

“The proposed development will create an attractive new shopfront for customers.”

Public reaction to this development has been varied. One user, Bristol_Girl, a commenter, voiced her prediction: "I expect the planning committee will insist that 3 of the 4 floors at M&S are suitable for student/co-living accommodation with one floor available for M&S."

Thinksclearzooms adds: "It's good to see Bristol remaining open for business after the impetus and confidence given by the government's handling of the economy. Hard for some to understand."

BMushroom reckons: "Good to see M&S simply relocating across town to an empty unit. Apparently, this means Bristol is a thriving destination for shoppers."

Fadinging says: "See a few days back another large store in Cabot shutting down Apple store wonder what will be left or who will visit with hardly any car parks in Bristol."

Bboy feels: "Marks and Spencer should seriously consider whether to follow through with this move, many other stores are doing the opposite and the green party seem pretty determined to stop most of Bristol travelling to central Bristol."

CharlesBridge believes: "With the Apple Store closing, by the time M&S move in there will probably only be Primark and Greggs left down there."

Do you think that Marks & Spencers will be a success in it's new location? Let us know in the comments below or HERE.