ST MICHAEL could prove to be the saviour of flagging Prestwich as retail giant Marks and Spencer consider a move to the shopping precinct.

The internationally renowned firm is interested in building a modern food store on the site currently occupied by the Grimshaws Vauxhall dealership.

And if the plan gets the go-ahead Prestwich would be home to only the second M & S food-store in the region.

As exclusively revealed in the Guide last month, plans had been submitted to Bury Council for a small development of shops on a prime site on the corner of Bury New Road and Fairfax Road.

The applicants, Derbyshire-based Peveril Securities Ltd, have now presented a second plan which includes two retail units instead of the original three and they have highlighted Marks and Spencer, famous for its St Michael brand name, as a potential occupant.

In a letter to Bury planners, the Manchester agents Drivers Jones, stated: "The proposals entail a foodstore to be operated by Marks and Spencer.

"This store is a new concept for the company in Manchester, the recently opened store in Sale being the only other example in the area at present."

The single-storey food hall, which would also stock a few non-food items, has been earmarked for the larger of the two units. A smaller unit is also expected to attract a leading high street name.

Elizabeth Grigg, of Drivers Jones, said: "The new plan is slightly different in its layout. There are two units instead of three.

"We do not know who the other occupier will be but we are in discussions with other high street retailers."

Development manager for Peveril, Mr Jonathan Nuttall, declined to comment on what he described as a "sensitive issue", adding that a deal with the company had not yet been signed.

Mr Nuttall had previously said the new development was in a prime position to link the town centre with Tesco and he hoped it would help to bridge the gap between the supermarket and the Longfield Centre.

Mr Mike Williams, of Prestwich Pharmacy, welcomed the possible arrival of the company. He said: "Brilliant! I welcome any new retailer to Prestwich that will improve the overall appearance and quality of the area.

"I am sure Marks and Spencer will do really well."

Jonathan Poston, Prestwich Business Forum's Area Board representative, also welcomed the news but added: "The development needs to contribute and be sensitive to the existing retail and community facilities by having proper links with the Longfield Centre."

Council leader John Byrne said: "It is vital that local residents and the business community in Prestwich are given every opportunity to make their views known about this significant proposal."