Closed B&M store to re-open as replacement announced

A new chapter is on the horizon for York's Clifton Moor Retail Park, where a former B&M site destroyed by a fire in October 2018 will soon be reborn as a major charity store. St Leonard's Hospice has confirmed it will open a flagship retail outlet on the site in spring 2026, transforming the 16,000 square feet space into a combined furniture shop, value store, and large drive-up donation centre. The hospice, which provides specialist care for people with life-limiting illnesses and supports their families, has signed a long-term lease on two newly built units at the park.

Clifton Moor Retail Park in York has been a well-known shopping destination since the 1980s. Located just off the A1237 outer ring road, around two and a half miles from the city centre, the open-air shopping centre offers a wide mix of shops, cafés, and services. Some of its stores include a big Tesco Extra, Pets at Home, Oak furniture land and B&Q and there's a range of entertainment options, including the Vue Cinema, Oxygen Activeplay, and Tenpin Bowling. Dining choices also include Bella Italia, Caramba, and Flying Legends.

James Wainwright, director of income generation at St Leonard's, said: "We're always conscious at St Leonard's of our commitment to the public who make our work possible in the first place.

"We're absolutely reliant on our donors and shoppers for the funds we need to meet increasing demand for our care.

"We're taking our charity retail offering to the next level. This new site means we can offer customers even better service and value for money. Donating items couldn't be easier, as you can back your car right up to the door.

"Our 14 existing shops across York, the Vale of York, Pocklington and Malton are so well supported and feel like fixtures in their communities. The Clifton Moor store builds on that and gives us the space to offer more.

"Such a huge facility also means we can develop our furniture collection service by offering house clearances as well. It's something we're often asked for by bereaved families, and now we'll be able to help by taking away a bit of hassle and stress at a time of life that's difficult enough already.

"Our value store will provide affordable options for people who might be finding things difficult financially. By reusing and recycling more, we'll keep usable items out of landfill, so it's good for local people and for the planet."

St Leonard's currently runs 14 charity shops. Together, they raise vital funds for hospice care in the community.

With the Clifton Moor store, the hospice hopes to bring in a significant boost to its target of raising £1 million a year through its retail network, The York Press reported.

The new facility will increase donation capacity, create volunteer opportunities, and provide affordable shopping options for residents.

Construction work is already under way, and the new store is expected to welcome its first customers in May 2026 bringing new life to a site that has stood empty for years.