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I suspect M&S would not be interested in moving to Whitfield in any case, so I think we need to bring this thread back a bit. My point was that given their long history in the town, I would have thought it was about time for some new investment from M&S. The DTIZ would certainly be a prime location for them, and as the anchor store, this would be a big draw for other retailers. I don't see this as being detrimental to the rest of the town, as people would still pass through the High Street, Market Square, and Castle Street. A new M&S would draw in customers from further afield (remember there's no M&S in Folkestone), as well as passing trade from the port. If they opened on Sundays, there would be a lot of interest from folks across the Channel where the shops are still closed on Sundays.
I think the planning rules restrict retail developments at Whitfield to the likes of DIY, electrical, white goods, etc. where there is a rationale for out-of-town developments with large car parks.