Iconic Marconi site sold to housebuilder
The former Marconi site in Chelmsford – home to the UK’s first radio broadcast in 1920 – has been sold to a leading housebuilder for an undisclosed sum.
Lambert Smith Hampton has disposed of the former works site to Bellway, one of the UK’s largest housebuilders, on behalf of Zolfo Cooper.The site totals 10 acres and was originally built by the telecommunications company in 1912. Marconi operated from there until 2008 when it sold the site to Ashwell Property Group.
Robert Neaverson, south region development director at LSH, said: “The Marconi site has a long history and is the largest - and arguably most high profile - site sale in Essex for a number of years.
“The site has been vacant since 2008 and had a resolution to grant planning consent for a mixed use scheme of new homes and retail space, totalling around one million sq ft. Following a successful sale process, Bellway was identified as the preferred bidder.”
Judith Sargent, head of LSH’s Chelmsford office, added: “It is very positive news for the Chelmsford and Essex market that a new owner is to drive forward much needed regeneration of this landmark site adjacent to Chelmsford station.
“The redevelopment will restore the site to preserve a genuine piece of Essex history, which is welcome news to the local market.”
