Clarks Village in Street has announced a £3.2 million redevelopment programme that will create a new flagship Marks & Spencer store and additional commercial retail space, as the Somerset shopping destination continues to invest in its facilities.
The project will see the existing Next store transformed into two new retail units, with M&S occupying the larger space. The development is designed to improve the shopping experience while providing additional capacity to attract retail brands.
The investment represents a further commitment to Clarks Village, which opened in 1993 as the UK’s first outlet shopping centre and has since grown into one of the South West’s established retail destinations.
Major retail redevelopment underway
Construction work has begun following the temporary closure of Next on 17 October. The fashion retailer is expected to return to a new location within Clarks Village in spring 2027.
Meanwhile, Marks & Spencer will continue trading from its existing store opposite the Central Square Gardens before relocating to its new flagship premises in summer 2027.
The redesigned building will feature full-height glazed shopfronts, timber-clad architectural elements and a new canopy, creating a modern retail environment within the outlet’s Pear Court area.
The scheme will also introduce an additional retail unit, providing further opportunities for brands seeking space at the Somerset destination.
“This project marks a major investment in Clarks Village as we continue to enhance the outlet and its offering for guests.”
– Mike Jones, Centre Director, Clarks Village.
He added that the redevelopment would provide a purpose-built home for M&S while creating additional retail space to meet demand from existing and prospective brand partners.
Continued investment in Somerset’s retail economy
The redevelopment also includes improvements to visitor facilities, with new public toilets and baby-changing facilities scheduled to open before Christmas. These will replace existing facilities affected by the building works.
Clarks Village is home to more than 90 retail brands and attracts visitors from across Somerset and the wider South West, supporting the local retail, hospitality and tourism economy.
The latest investment builds on previous improvements to the outlet, including landscaping, upgraded shopfronts and visitor facilities.
The development is expected to strengthen Clarks Village’s retail offering while providing new commercial space and supporting its position as a major shopping destination in the region.