COLCHESTER’S MP Will Quince looks set to open his new constituency office in a former shop.

A planning application has been submitted to turn the former Ralph and Rita store in Layer Road, Colchester, into his office.

Mr Quince was elected as the town’s MP in May, signalling the end of Liberal Democrat Sir Bob Russell’s 18 years in office.

The office will be used by Mr Quince’s secretarial staff and for him to host surgeries with members of the public.

Colchester Council aims to decide on the plans by September 17.