A round-up of this week's top stories and events in Chelmsford.

Plans submitted to turn The Meadows into new riverside quarter

A planning application has been received to turn The Meadows Shopping Centre into a new riverside quarter between the River Can and the River Chelmer.

The plans would redevelop the current city centre site into a mixed-use development at the southern end of the High Street and along the rivers, including space for retail, commercial and community use, more public spaces and new homes.

The application is now available for viewing and comment and can be found under 24/01046/FUL on our planning portal. The closing date for comments is 20 September 2024. Click on the button below for more information.

Explore Chelmsford’s heritage for free this September

Chelmsford’s Heritage Open Days programme returns 6–15 September. This year’s programme includes tours of Stock Windmill, a community painted rock snake, and a special 1940s themed fun day in Tindal Square. And don’t forget, there’s only one day left to submit your entries for this year’s photography competition – the deadline is Saturday 24 August!

Prestigious award for Townfield Street car park

Townfield Street multi-storey car park has become the first facility in the South East to receive the prestigious ‘Park Mark Plus’ award. Awarded by the national, police endorsed Safer Parking Scheme, Park Mark Plus recognises the highest-quality car parks in the UK. Chelmsford City Council now has 22 Park Mark awards, and 16 sites with an additional Park Access accreditation.

Grants available for rural businesses and community groups

A grant scheme offering up to £20,000 to rural businesses and community groups is open for applications until Friday 30 August. The grant doesn't need to be repaid and funding comes from the Rural England Prosperity Fund. Chelmsford City Council has £300,000 to allocate to projects that strengthen rural economies for the 2024/25 period.

Celebrate diversity at the Choose Your Chill Festival

On Saturday 31 August Oaklands Park will host a brand-new free event that celebrates diverse and connected communities across Chelmsford. Organised by Night Til Dawn and the New Generation Development Agency, Choose Your Chill presents live music performances, sports, children’s games, food, meditation, and arts and crafts from different cultures. Drop in from 12-7pm to enjoy all that’s on offer.

Travelling abroad with medication

Going away this bank holiday weekend? The NHS has issued a reminder to check the rules on entering and exiting a country with medication ahead of travelling. If you’re planning to take a repeat prescription or medication abroad with you, visit the Gov.uk website for advice.

Deadline approaching for HUG2 applications

If your home is heated by oil, coal, liquid petroleum gas (LPG) or electricity, you may be eligible for a government funded Home Upgrade Grant to improve your home’s efficiency. Apply by 30 September to see if your home qualifies for upgrades that will allow you to use less energy, reduce your carbon footprint, and spend less on your energy bills.

Fourth venue confirmed for Sounds Good Festival

Sounds Good Chelmsford has confirmed another venue set to take part in the brand-new city centre festival – the much-loved Voodoo Keller Bar. The two-day festival has also revealed more outstanding acts performing in Chelmsford this September, including singer/songwriters Roisin O’Hagan and Leo Walrus, and indie folk artist We Are All Fossils.

Upgraded multi-use games area at South Woodham Ferrers Leisure Centre

Thanks to National Lottery and Sports England funding, the multi-use games area at South Woodham Ferrers Leisure Centre has received a makeover and now boasts tennis, netball and pickleball courts! To celebrate, the centre is hosting a launch event this Saturday 24 August from 10am-12pm. Pop down to see and try the new facilities.

Discover workshops for adults at Chelmsford Theatre

This autumn, Chelmsford Theatre has something new for adults to discover. Whether that’s trying your hand at painting a landscape, exploring what goes on backstage, or unleashing your inner theatre fanatic with Musical Theatre Mixology, a West End Workout or a Moulin Rouge Dance Class. Don’t hold back, try out a new skill with the theatre’s Discover series, starting from Saturday 7 September.

Free trial available at your local leisure centre

Chelmsford’s community leisure centres are offering free trials to help residents prioritise their wellbeing this summer. Whether you're looking to elevate your energy, find your fitness flow, or carve out some time to relax, you’ll find something that works for you at one of our four leisure centres.