Work has officially got underway this week on the Roman Bath’s Archway Project which will provide a World Heritage Centre and new educational facilities for visiting schoolchildren.
Plus access to as yet unseen parts of the excavated bathing complex remains.
According to Dr Jenna Spellane, Archway Project Manager at the Roman Baths:
‘ The works are forecast to last for 60 weeks, provided that there are no unforeseen issues within the fabric of the historic buildings, and are being carried out by Beard Construction.
The main building works will be followed by a short period of exhibition installation of 6-8 weeks.
Hoarding and fencing will run the length of 10 York Street in York Street and down Swallow Street to the end of the project site. This will remain in place for the duration of the main works and pedestrian access will be maintained in York Street and Swallow Street.
Graphics will soon be applied to the hoarding that will show people engaging in the activities that the project will create, as well as wayfinding for local traders and other details.
A summary of the project is as follows: the main building works will transform 10 York Street and the adjacent buildings in Swallow Street into a learning centre for the Roman Baths and a World Heritage Centre for the City of Bath.
The new learning centre will help us to transform learning & engagement projects at the Roman Baths and we will work with local community groups and schools from across the region on events, activities and sessions for schools groups.
The World Heritage Centre will contain imaginative displays that will show people why the city of Bath is a World Heritage Site and inspire them to go out and explore the city.
The project will also open up new areas of the Roman Baths to visitors, including a Roman laconicum (similar to a sauna) and a Roman exercise courtyard.
