A “serious proposal” to close the M&S store in Leicester is being considered

The former Marks and Spencer branch in Gallowtree Gate is currently empty

BBC shoppers stroll past the large, empty premises that once housed Marks and Spencer, on the pedestrian street, overlooking the famous Clock Tower further down the street — The former Marks and Spencer branch in Gallowtree Gate is currently empty

The city’s mayor has announced that a “serious proposal” is being considered for the building that once housed a branch of Marks and Spencer (M&S) in Leicester.

IN PowerM&S said it had made a “difficult decision” to propose closing the Gallowtree Gate store, with a closing date announced in July and doors closed sad buyers for the last time in August.

After more than two months, the site remains empty.

However, Sir Peter Soulsby told the BBC there was “interest” in the site and the proposal was “under discussion”.

Leicester City Council added that no further details of the proposals could be released at this time.

Soulsby said: “It has only been just over 10 weeks since M&S closed and I am pleased to say that there is interest in this prime city center location, with a serious proposal currently under discussion.

“We are unable to provide further details at this stage but will do so in due course.”

Shoppers in Gallowtree Gate said M&S’s departure had left a large hole in the town centre.

The loss of M&S means less choice for shoppers, Naomi Deeley has said

A woman with glasses on her head, wearing a coat over a denim jacket and a peach top, stood in front of the former facade of M&S in Gallowtree Gate — The loss of M&S means less choice for shoppers, Naomi Deeley has said

Leicester resident Naomi Deeley, 20, said: “I did shop at M&S but it was more about food and alcohol.

“I’m not sure what I would like to see there, but it would be good to see something similar, then we would have more shopping options.”

Student Nish Gurung, 21, added: “I think the problem for the city is that there is no M&S there. I just wish it would be open again.”

Liza Deeping said the store’s closure was “pretty sad”.

A woman in a beanie hat, gray jumper and monochrome coat outside a closed M&S store in Leicester — Liza Deeping said the store’s closure was “pretty sad”.

Liza Deeping, 57, from Leicester, believes that the problem for many businesses is what the city center streets look like outside their doors.

She said: “I was there as a child with my dad. The staff were lovely, it was quite sad when it closed.

“But given the general condition of the city, I can understand it. I think a lot of people feel vulnerable.”

When the store closed over the summer, one shopper – Margherita Stevens – wore a black hat and veil to mourn the loss of the store.

As the doors closed for the final time, employees gathered to applaud loudly.