As many of you will know Bellway Homes has recently completed the purchase of the derelict site.  In spite of the site only being in their possession for about 6 weeks they have already put in hand measures to prevent further deterioration of the 1912 building.
They already have outline plans and these were shown at an exhibition at Anglia Ruskin University on 18 & 19 October where there were representatives from Bellway, HardHat and the architects present to answer questions and to learn from those who visited things about the site during its operational days; this is relevant as they try to answer question 6 below. According to Bellway there has been some confusion about the exact spot from which Dame Nellie Melba made her famous Chelmsford broadcast.
What was on show at these exhibitions can be seen at http://www.marconiredevelopment.co.uk/ under “The Proposals” tab.  One major aspect of the plan that is not mentioned in Bellway’s proposals is that no building on the site will be higher than 5 storeys or the same height as the present Marconi House.  This is a change from the previous plans that would have built tower blocks in the area near the railway station that was the Marconi car park.  This area will now be flats with commercial units on the ground floor.
Based on the proposals shown at the exhibition (and which can now be seen on their web site) there was a feedback form provided. Â This asked the following questions:
1. Â What do you think of our plans to create a mixed-use development on the site?
2. Â Do you support our plans to retain the 1912 Building, Powerhouse and Water tower?
3. Â How do you feel about our proposal to create a pedestrian link through the site?
4. Â Do you think our plans for Marconi Road are moving in the right direction?
5. Â Is there anything else you would like to comment on at this stage?
6. Â Please give us your ideas for how we can best remember the history of the former Marconi premises.
Bellway would be very pleased for any interested persons to respond to these questions which can be done at marconi@bellway.co.uk