The planning condition was originally imposed in a bid to protect local shops from out-of-town developments which it was feared could have an adverse effect on existing trade. However, the promise of a prestigious Marks and Spencer outlet has led to widespread calls for the planning condition to be relaxed. 

Marks and Spencer have said that the inclusion of a 'Food Hall' is a fundamental element in their plans and that if permission to include such a facility is not approved then they would withdraw from the site. However, M&S appear to be so confident that the planning authority will allow the development that they have actually taken out a lease on part of the site. While they could of course re-sell, or sub-let if it came to it, the purchase of the lease has been seen as a positive sign. Marks and Spencer's plans are for a 6,000 sq ft store, (to give you some idea of the size, Morrisons at Eastern Green, Penzance is about 3,000 sq ft.).

In addition to Marks and Spencer, Hayle Eye has learned that Boots and Next have also taken up options for retail space and negotiations are believed to be underway with a national electrical retailer and other interested parties.

Civic leaders have unanimously (unless anyone tells us different), welcomed M&S and the retail park development arguing that rather than taking trade away from existing shops, the concentration of high quality shopping facilities will result in more people visiting the town, something that has happened in very few instances in other locations.

Worries have been raised over the effect of the Marsh Lane development on the nearby village of Angarrack and there is also some concern about what effect the Retail Park will have on INGs plans for similar retail outlets as part of their Hayle Harbour development proposals
 

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