Planning permission has been granted for a significant new retail development at The Hub at Wintringham, eastern St Neots, bringing a brand-new M&S Food store, independent retail units, office and co-working space, and a cafe/eatery to the growing community.

The approved plans represent one of the most significant expansions of retail provision in St Neots in recent years. The new M&S Food will be triple the size of the town’s existing M&S offer, positioned within a purpose-designed public square that will form the commercial heart of the Wintringham development.

Alongside the flagship food store, a range of smaller units has been specifically designed for independent retailers, creating a mixed shopping environment intended to serve both the established town and the rapidly expanding eastern expansion. Joanne Herd, Regional Manager at M&S, confirmed that the new store will create more than 40 new local jobs, with recruitment expected to begin in the coming months.

The cafe and eatery will offer everything from light refreshments to a fuller menu, adding a social dimension to the retail offer and helping to establish The Hub as a destination in its own right.

Paul Murfin, Communications and Partnerships Manager for master developer Urban&Civic, described the approval as

“Another significant milestone in delivering a vibrant and sustainable community at Wintringham, and the retail development complements the David Lloyd health and wellness club due to open in the autumn, as well as planned health and community centre facilities for the Hub’s central zone.”

Construction on the northern zone of The Hub is scheduled to begin this summer, with the buildings targeted for completion by September 2027 and a pre-Christmas opening to follow.