'Excellent progress' at M&S site

A COUNCILLOR says that a development of new homes at the site of a former M&S store is progressing well despite a number of "unforeseen challenges".

- By RUCSANDRA MOLDOVEANU

The building at 32 Stodman Street in Newark is currently being transformed by Newark and Sherwood District Council and Newark Town Board.

The project, which is expected to be completed in 2026, will bring 29 private rented homes and breathe new life into the town centre. The modern homes will be accompanied by new shop units, which have already received interest from prospective occupiers.

The town centre homes will help boost daytime activity as well as the evening economy, the council said.

Councillor Claire Penny, portfolio holder for sustainable economic development at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: "The progress on site has been outstanding, especially considering the complexities of dismantling and reconstructing the building in such a constrained space.