British Land announces significant new retail and leisure development at Glasgow Fort

British Land has submitted a planning application for a 60,000 sq ft expansion of Glasgow Fort, with the proposed development extension representing one of the UK’s first major retail and leisure development investments since 2020.

If approved, the expansion would see an over 32,000 sq ft expansion of the existing Marks & Spencer, creating the brand’s largest store in Scotland and a flagship location. It will provide customers with a larger, more comprehensive shopping experience and an extended range of products.

The plans would also introduce an enhanced leisure offering, with bowling, arcades, and a range of other attractions set for the centre, ensuring a diversified experience for customers.

The application follows two public consultations held last year and responds to growing visitor demand, building on a period of strong performance at the centre and reflecting increasing confidence in the sector.

In 2025, Glasgow Fort recorded its highest-ever visitor numbers, with footfall increasing by eight percent in the last 12 months. This growth has been driven by sustained demand across fashion, health and beauty, and food and beverage, with recent enhancements to the retail line-up including an expanded River Island and the addition of Victoria’s Secret, reinforcing its role as one of the leading retail and leisure destinations in the country.

Rachel Rankine, Regional Manager, M&S, said: “We’re excited about the opportunity to significantly expand our Glasgow Fort store and create a standout M&S destination for our customers in Scotland. If approved, this extension would allow us to showcase a bigger range of our delicious, trusted value Food and great quality Fashion, Home and Beauty products.

Glasgow Fort is an important location for us and these plans will help us deliver a modern, spacious and enjoyable shopping experience for our customers.”

Matt Reed, Head of Asset Management (Retail Parks) at British Land, said: “This proposed expansion reflects the continued momentum we’re seeing at Glasgow Fort and our confidence in its long-term growth. It’s also one of the UK’s first significant retail and leisure developments in recent years, signalling renewed confidence in the sector alongside the asset’s strong investment value.

We’re actively managing and evolving the asset to ensure it remains relevant in line with changing consumer behaviours, with a focus on creating a vibrant environment that supports our occupiers while delivering compelling experiences for visitors. Subject to approval, these plans will further cement Glasgow Fort’s position as one of the UK’s leading retail park destinations.”