One of the projects that has been developing over the last four years is a major new education centre to enhance the Roman Baths experience. I am delighted that the new administration is continuing with this project.
Members of the public will be able to find out more about plans for the new Archway Centre in Bath at an exhibition in January.
The drop-in exhibition will be held in the Kingston Room in the Pump Room complex, from January 7 – 9, 11am to 4pm. There will also be a presentation on January 8, at 6.30pm. Those who attend will be able to see a 3D model of the building and meet some of the Council staff and architects working on the project
The Archway Centre project will create a new Roman Baths Learning Centre above and behind the former city laundry in York Street and Swallow Street. It will also include a World Heritage Centre for the city. In addition, visitors to the Roman Baths will be able to go beneath the street and see parts of the site that have never before been open for regular public access.
There will be an Investigation Zone where school parties can carry out investigative work on in-situ archaeological remains and Roman stonework in an atmospheric setting. School groups will be able to walk through these fascinating spaces beneath York Street via an underground tunnel and then through an original Roman doorway, straight into the Roman Baths to be met with a stunning view of the Great Bath chamber.
The Council has appointed local architects Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios as lead designers for the project. Other members of the design team are Bath-based structural and civil engineers Integral Engineering Design and mechanical and electrical engineers Method Consulting from Swindon.
The Archway Centre project is expected to cost approximately £5.2m. Bath & North East Somerset Council has committed £1m, and Council staff are now working with the design team to prepare a round two application to the Heritage Lottery Fund for capital funding of £3.5m. This will be submitted in June 2016.