East Lothian Council approves M&S food hall, Lidl and B&M retail park in Dunbar

East Lothian Council has approved plans for the region's first Marks & Spencer food hall, along with new stores for Lidl and B&M, in a development expected to create approximately 250 jobs. The planning committee unanimously granted permission for the three retail units on agricultural land off Spott Road in Dunbar, a decision welcomed by local representatives who cited strong community demand.

The development, proposed by East Oakwood Developments Ltd, will be situated beside the existing Asda and Dunbar Garden Centre. According to the developers, the new stores aim to address a significant economic leakage, with an estimated £16.2 million of local expenditure currently spent outside the town, primarily in nearby Haddington and North Berwick. The applicants argued the new retail park would not only serve Dunbar but also attract shoppers from surrounding communities, helping to retain more spending locally.

During the planning meeting held on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, councillors expressed strong support for the project. Councillor Donna Collins, who represents the area, noted the high level of public anticipation. "The most frequent question I am asked is when are we getting...