Stowmarket plans submitted for three retail units, including M&S Foodhall, at Tomo Road and Gun Cotton Way

Plans have been submitted for three retail units in Stowmarket.

The application, submitted by Location 3 Properties Ltd (L3P), proposes the construction of three retail units at Tomo Road and Gun Cotton Way, in Stowmarket.

One of the units would see a new Marks and Spencer store come to the town alongside an unannounced 'national mixed goods retailer', and another occupier that hasn't yet been identified.

The plans, submitted to Mid Suffolk District Council, would see a floor area totalling at 5,298 sqm, with a large 238-vehicle car park also accompanying it.

An approval, the developer argues it would not only deliver around 180 full-time jobs but also send 'a strong and tangible message of investment and confidence in Stowmarket'.

The application also states the development would 'act as a catalyst for realising further investment within Stowmarket in direct response to the retail needs of the growing community' — estimated at around 1,500 new homes.

In turn, the plans could also reduce the need for residents to travel to Bury St Edmunds and Ipswich in order to access 'comparable retail provision'.

According to a statement by the developer, a public consultation measuring initial resident feedback saw overwhelming support, with 618 respondents, or over 95 per cent, in favour.