COLCHESTER’S MP has met with senior figures at Marks and Spencer to spark hope that the retailer could return to Colchester city centre.

Will Quince took to social media to share he had met with senior figures at Marks and Spencer to discuss the future of the high street retail unit, which has remained empty since it shut in September.

It comes as the Gazette revealed Marks and Spencer will be shelling out close to £800 each day in business rates when the three-month grace period given to businesses to find a replacement tenant ends next month.

Mr Quince announced on Twitter the future of the retail unit has been discussed with bosses at Marks and Spencer, and the prospect of a Marks and Spencer food hall in the city centre could be explored.

He said: “Held a further meeting with senior figures in Marks and Spencer today to discuss the future of the former Marks and Spencer site and the prospect of a Marks and Spencer food hall in Colchester city centre in the future.

“I will update residents further when I am able to do so."