As part of the £3.2M refurbishment of Chelmsford Theatre, Arc Group undertook a critical package of enabling works to facilitate the transformation of the venue into a vibrant cultural hub. Our early-stage involvement focused on ensuring the seamless integration of future fit-out and M&E packages through careful planning and site preparation. This included strategic strip-out of existing finishes, intrusive surveys, and temporary works design to maintain the structural integrity and safety of the site while maintaining partial public access in surrounding areas. By coordinating enabling works alongside design development, we helped de-risk the main construction phase, allowing for accelerated delivery of front-of-house enhancements.

In a live city centre environment, enabling activities also required meticulous stakeholder engagement and logistical planning. The implementation of bespoke public hoardings not only secured the site but also communicated the project vision, generating community interest and managing expectations. Working in close collaboration with Chelmsford City Council and specialist contractors, our team ensured the theatres remained operationally safe while preparing the building for extensive upgrades. This foundation phase laid the groundwork for the successful unification of the two theatre spaces, providing the infrastructure needed for new bespoke bars, enhanced M&E systems, and the introduction of open-access public spaces such as the café and event areas.