Marks & Spencer has launched authorized motion in opposition to the federal government’s determination to dam its controversial redevelopment in Oxford Avenue, central London.

Operations director Sacha Berendji mentioned that housing secretary Michael Gove had “wrongly interpreted and utilized planning coverage” in rejecting the retailer’s plans to demolish and rebuild its flagship retailer in July.

He added: “It’s vastly disappointing that after two years of help and approvals at each stage, we have now been compelled to take authorized motion to beat a misguided agenda in opposition to our scheme, and we can be difficult this to the fullest extent potential.”

M&S acquired approval from Westminster Metropolis Council in November 2021 to knock down the historic constructing complicated close to Marble Arch and change it with a 10-storey mixed-use workplace and retail improvement.

Nonetheless, Gove later ordered an inquiry into the scheme after criticism about its environmental influence.

Planning inspector David Nicholson had advisable that Gove approve the plans, affirming M&S’s argument that if the big website was left vacant, it may hurt the viability of Oxford Avenue.

In his determination to reject M&S’s proposal, Gove mentioned the general public advantages of the brand new website “wouldn’t outweigh” the heritage hurt attributable to demolishing the present constructing. He additionally cited issues concerning the extent of embodied carbon the brand new improvement would trigger.

Henrietta Billings, director of marketing campaign group SAVE Britain’s Heritage, mentioned: “This public inquiry raised extremely vital nationwide points about the way in which we construct, the wasteful demolition of completely good buildings and the way forward for our excessive streets.

“Our case generated widespread public help and media consideration. Michael Gove made the precise determination in dismissing the M&S demolition proposals and we hope that the secretary of state and his division resolutely defend this case. We’re contemplating our subsequent steps and have each intention of sustaining our place.”