Council statement in response to M&S proposed move to Queens Drive, Kilmarnock
On Saturday 25 October 2025, Marks and Spencer Plc announced plans to move from their current location in King Street, Kilmarnock to Queens Drive on the outskirts of the town.
In response, Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of East Ayrshire Council said:
“This is a bittersweet announcement for our town, which, like many town centres, is already facing some considerable challenges as a retail destination.
"M&S have had a presence in Kilmarnock for almost 100 years, but we recognise that their business model has changed in recent years and appreciate their desire to look at different premises in the town, as part of a much wider national strategy.
“Future proposals will be subject to the local planning process and will require to be considered by the Planning Committee in due course. We have not yet had sight of the information associated with the planning application, and as such we do not know the full extent of M&S intentions.
“By working together with businesses, developers and investors we are committed to doing all that we can to protect local jobs and support existing businesses to breathe new life into the town centre."