M&S to open new Foodhall in Broadstone this winter

The retailer has submitted its plans to the council to open at the former Budgens store in Broadstone.

Until now, the store has been tight-lipped about its intentions to open a food hall at the site in Lower Blandford Road.

Budgens – located next door to Tesco Express – shut its doors in early July.

As well as minor alterations to the outside of the store, M&S is seeking permission to install two trolley bays and a plant at the rear.

A spokesperson for M&S said: “We’re looking forward to bringing the best of M&S Food to Broadstone this winter with a new M&S Foodhall. We’ll update the local community with further details as plans progress.”

Local councillors have welcomed the prospect of the new store.

Cllr Vikki Slade said it was “really good news for Broadstone”.

“Not only will it mean more choice for people in Broadstone, but for the traders it means that people will be travelling in from elsewhere for their shopping.

“I hope it might lead to other retailers opening up.”

She added: “I am also delighted that the previous staff from Budgens are coming back – they are currently being trained in other local M&S stores.”

Cllr Mike Brooke agreed the new store would be a boost for the town’s trade.

He spoke out recently about the negative impact hiked car parking charges were having on Broadstone.

He also said traders were reporting reduced footfall and a decline in income as a result.

“We welcome M&S coming to Broadstone – it’s a recognition of the character of the town and the quality and nature of its residents,” he said.

“It should be a bigger draw and help other businesses, but there is still the issue of car parking charges which has got to be addressed.

“I’m looking forward to the new store opening and seeing the alterations that are made.”