M&S Foodhall Plans Submitted for Gallagher Retail Park in Caerphilly

Marks & Spencer has submitted a formal planning application to open a new M&S Foodhall at Gallagher Retail Park in Caerphilly, proposing up to 70 new jobs in a major expansion for the town’s retail sector.

What the Planning Application Proposes

The application, submitted to Caerphilly County Borough Council, seeks permission for the change of use, external alterations, and signage installation for Unit 18. If approved, the unit will be reconfigured into a modern M&S Foodhall format featuring fresh produce aisles, an in-store bakery, prepared meal ranges, and an integrated customer collection point for M&S.com clothing and home orders.

The proposal marks a decisive return to Caerphilly for the national retailer. While earlier exploratory plans in 2017 were put on hold during nationwide retail restructuring, this new application reflects renewed retail demand across South Wales and strong catchment figures across the Rhymney Valley and northern Cardiff commuter belt.

A Dual Upgrade for Gallagher Retail Park

The M&S announcement follows closely behind planning approval for British fashion and homeware retailer Next, which is currently preparing to transform a neighbouring vacant unit at Gallagher Retail Park.

Together, the arrival of M&S and Next represents the most substantial commercial retail investment in Caerphilly in recent years, joining established park tenants including B&M, Pets at Home, and Halfords to form a consolidated regional retail destination.

Local Employment and Economic Context

According to planning documentation, the development is expected to generate up to 70 full-time and part-time jobs across store operations, logistics, customer service, and management roles, with priority recruitment directed toward local residents.

Local business groups and council representatives have broadly welcomed the planning submission, pointing to increased footfall retention. Rather than travelling south toward Culverhouse Cross or Newport for premium food shopping, residents across Caerphilly, Bedwas, Machen, and Llanbradach will have a direct local alternative.

Next Steps in the Planning Process

The application is currently under statutory consultation with Caerphilly County Borough Council’s planning department, with statutory bodies, highways officers, and local residents invited to submit representations over the coming weeks. A decision date is anticipated later this autumn.

Author: cardiffconnect