Crompton'S Arc Works

Crompton's Arc Works is a former generating plant, now a warehouse, dating to the late 19th century and built for R E B Crompton. The building is constructed of brick with terracotta detailing, incorporating a slate and glass roof. It fronts Anchor Street and is composed of three bays of two-storey office accommodation and six bays of factory accommodation, distinguished by full-height segmental openings. Pediments are present above the office bays and the factory entrance. Two later doors have been inserted. The works were founded in 1878 to supply electricity to the town, and in 1901, Chelmsford became the first town in Britain to have public street lighting powered from this location. The building is listed due to its historical connection with Crompton, his pioneering work in electricity, and particularly its association with the installation of public street lighting.