The Meadows is entering an exciting new chapter with 2026 set to be a year of change and progress towards consolidating its position as a vibrant mixed leisure and retail destination at the heart of the city centre.
Hollywood Bowl, recognised as the market leading tenpin bowling operator in the UK, has signed to take a substantial 30,000 sq ft unit for its latest multi-lane bowling, games zone, sports bar and party venue format. It is expected it will open this winter and will anchor the growing leisure hub at the core of the centre, complementing the Odeon cinema and the food offer.
The food & beverage line-up is strengthened further with the growing restaurant brand Smoke & Pepper. Its 4,650 sq ft riverside unit opening in April will become its 14th outlet and feature its signature smash burgers, grilled chicken, loaded fries, smoked meats and speciality sauces.
The retail offer is also being consolidated across fashion, gifts and convenience sectors.
Suit Direct is taking a c5,000 sq ft unit for its menswear designer and bespoke styling range of men’s suits, accessories and casualwear from leading brands.
Big Dog Land the innovative new lifestyle gifts, gadgets, and novelty technology products retailer is also set to open on the High Street frontage in a c1,500 sq ft unit.
The High Street frontage also boasts the recently opened new convenience-led ‘grab and go’ food concept store – Co-op On The Go. One of the first of a “brand new chain of stores in vibrant, high foot-flow locations.” – The Co-op Group.
This step up in the range and quality of the offer at The Meadows is complemented by other recent openings this year of women’s fashion brand Penny Plain and Taz’s Beauty Salon, part of a expanding chain of salons offering a range of beauty treatments.
Alex Butler, Senior Asset Manager at Estama said: “It’s been a really strong start to 2026 at The Meadows, with a great mix of new lettings and openings already coming through. We’re proud to be playing a part in the centre’s ongoing evolution alongside a great team, and there’s more to come across both retail and leisure, which will build on this momentum and continue to strengthen the centre’s position in Chelmsford. The city is one of the key destinations in the East of England, and The Meadows is becoming an increasingly important part of that.”
Agents for The Meadows are Savills and Purpose Real Estate. Estama is the Asset Manager.
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