Primark plans to open a brand new store in Newbury

The budget fashion retailer, who has a flagship story and head office in Reading, has set its sights on the former Debenham's unit in West Berkshire town's Parkway shopping district. 

Campaigning Facebook group 'Support a Primark store for Newbury' welcomed the news, saying: "Finally, we were heard! No more going to Reading or Basingstoke for our Primark needs." 

The plans have been made public after a developer acting on behalf of the chain submitted a planning application to West Berkshire Council.

Architects Corstorphine and White have mocked up an impression of what the new store front could look like.

The proposal reads: "[This] proposal is for minor alterations to the external envelope to Block E at Newbury Parkway Shopping Centre to facilitate incoming tenant Primark.

"The unit has been vacant since 2022 following the departure of Debenhams from the centre."

Providing detail about what changes would be made, the report said the existing aqua tinted shopfront glazing is to be replaced with clear glass

A new glazed canopy would be built over Primark’s staff entrance door and the property would be re-clad to Primark’s brand standard colours.

The existing loading bay for stock and transport is to be amended to suit Primark’s requirements with a new fire escape doorway to Park Street.

Residents on social media have been sharing their excitement at the news. One said: "Fantastic for Parkway, it's been so quiet recently."

Others expressed disappointment that the store wasn't "big enough".