Meadows Shopping Centre, Chelmsford City, Essex, UK:
Prime Location, Superb Ambiance, but Needs a Facelift:
During our trip last August and September, my wife and I visited the Meadows Shopping Centre in downtown Chelmsford, Essex, several times. It was a unique experience of a site that clearly sits on a superb foundation, starting with its parking, which...
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Meadows Shopping Centre, Chelmsford City, Essex, UK:
Prime Location, Superb Ambiance, but Needs a Facelift:
During our trip last August and September, my wife and I visited the Meadows Shopping Centre in downtown Chelmsford, Essex, several times. It was a unique experience of a site that clearly sits on a superb foundation, starting with its parking, which is one of the best in Chelmsford. Perhaps most importantly, this super location and easy access are a great advantage over other city centre malls. Moreover, its riverside location along the Chelmer River provides a serene, natural, and pleasantly quiet atmosphere . .
The centre also boasts an excellent mix of unique retailers. This includes the community-focused Art Place and a reliable fresh fruits and vegetables market stall for groceries, supported by popular food and value outlets like Millie's Cookies, Muffin Break, Baskin-Robbins, House To Home, OneBeyond, and, not to forget, Savers . .
Sadly, these inherent assets are overshadowed by a facility that is visibly run down. The quantity of empty units casts a depressing shadow of neglect. While the toilet facilities were a nice addition, the rest of the mall requires immediate attention . .
In Short: Go for the unparalleled parking and the thriving local shops, but don't expect a modern shopping experience. Only a sizable investment and full refurbishment will allow this prime site to truly thrive and attract the boutiques and eateries it deserves . . .
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