A popular Edinburgh outlet store is set to be converted into a discount shop under plans submitted to city chiefs.
Home Bargains has signed a lease agreement with bosses at Meadowbank Shopping Park to replace the Marks and Spencer outlet if the move is given backing by council planners.
Documents submitted to the local authority say the move will “strengthen the role of the identified Commercial Centre as a local retail destination” after M&S opted not to continue with its lease of the unit just off London Road.
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The outlet stocked a range of M&S products at lower prices than the retail giant’s main stores and is one of only two in Scotland alongside a sister location in Glasgow.
Home Bargains will join other discount retailers including B&M Stores and Poundland at the Park - which also features a Sainsbury’s Supermarket and TK Maxx clothing store.
An application has been made to the council to allow for a change of use so that food sales could be made on the premises.
The planning application continues: “Importantly, accommodating Home Bargains will help prevent a key emergent vacancy and will boost footfall and improve overall vitality and viability, as are fundamental objectives throughout the planning policy hierarchy.
“Overall, the proposed development accords with the concerns and significant objectives of national, strategic and local planning policy, and specifically meets with the key retail policy tests.
“In view of the foregoing, it is respectfully requested that the proposals are given strong support in their determination.”
The City of Edinburgh Council will consider the proposals at a later date.
