DEPARTURES MEETING IN...
Chelmsford
Chelmsford, the county town of Essex, was awarded city status in 2012 in light of its growing population and increasingly diverse economy, writes Andy Hoskins
Historically, however, it was once a thriving market town with a strong agricultural sector. Malting, milling, foundries and light engineering have all had their day, and Chelmsford also lays claim to the birthplace of radio after Guglielmo Marconi opened a factory in the city back in 1899. Latterly labelled a ‘clone town’
and commuter hub, the city has undergone several redevelopment projects in recent years – with more in the pipeline – that have coincided with a rise in the number of independent shops and businesses. Indeed, a pedestrianised high
street links two shopping centres, making Chelmsford one of Essex’s largest retail and commercial hubs. Both Essex County Council and
Essex Police are based in Chelmsford, while its proximity to London – some 30 miles to the southwest – has also boosted its role in the distribution sector.
Wow Factor Hylands House
Address: Hylands House, Hylands Park, London Road, Chelmsford, CM2 8WQ Tel: 01245 605500 See:
www.chelmsford.gov.uk/corporatehire Owned and operated by Chelmsford Borough Council, this impressive grade-II listed property lies in 574 acres of landscaped parkland – which plays host to the annual V music festival – and a comprehensive restoration project was finally completed several years ago. The entire building or the ground floor can be hired for exclusive use, with the latter comprising 12 different meeting and event spaces. They range in size from the Hanbury Suite (up to 12 delegates boardroom style) to the Banqueting Room (up to 100 theatre-style). A range of light refreshments and buffets are available.
Quirky Venue Osea Island
Address: Osea Island, Maldon, CM9 8UH Tel: 07810 753226 See:
www.oseaisland.co.uk Osea Island lies 15 miles east of Chelmsford in the Blackwater estuary and is fringed by four miles of beaches and coastline. It is rich in bird and wildlife and
is accessed at low tide by a mile-long road (originally built by the Romans) that connects it to the mainland – or by six-passenger water taxi. Accommodation includes a ten-bedroom Manor House and The Manor Beach House which sleeps 16, plus 14 cottages, six apartments and, available from May this year, the Chapel House which sleeps up to 12 people. This unusual venue’s meeting and event locations range from the Manor House Boardroom with stunning sea views (for up to 20 people) and the Yoga shack (for 20-30 people seated), to the newly renovated Manor Barn (available from April for approximately 100 seated and 200 standing) and the Orchard and Rose Gardens (summer only, for up to 40 seated or 80 standing). Activities on offer at Osea Island include bird-watching, fishing, cycling, walking tours, cookery classes, wine- tasting and creative classes.
New Kid on the Block Oasis Waterfront Place
Address: Oasis Waterfront Place, Wharf Road, Chelmsford, CM2 6LU Tel: 020 3286 9174 See:
www.visitessexforbusiness.com This new, waterside venue is located around a 15-minute walk east of Chelmsford train station, and
68 THE BUSINESS TRAVEL MAGAZINE
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