It’s such good news that Michael Gove has refused permission for Marks and Spencer to redevelop its flagship store on Oxford Street. It’s not an especially distinguished building, but infinitely preferable to the measly nondescript building which was planned to replace it, having at least some sense of civic dignity which the replacement totally lacks. But more important than the character of the architecture was whether or not it is sensible in the current environment gratuitously to demolish an existing building, rather than seek to refurbish it. In the course of the debate surrounding Marks and Spencer, the mood in the architectural profession has rightly shifted to refurbishment where possible. Marks and Spencer could, and should, have been a leader in this movement, but instead adopted nihilistic corporate values, as reflected in the vituperative comments of its Chief Executive. Gove should be congratulated.

https://www.theguardian.com/business/2023/jul/20/marks-spencer-refused-permission-to-demolish-and-rebuild-oxford-street-store