The Roman Town House project marked its official launch in Dorchester this week.

The launch, which was held outside for 30 guests, recognised the work of Dorset Council and partners to improve, preserve and make the site more accessible for a wider audience.

The project has been made possible by money raised by National Lottery players. It received a £248,000 grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Laurel Miller, senior engagement manager, was at the event to say a few words on how the site has transformed since she visited two years ago.

Stuart McLeod, director England - London and South at the National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: "We are delighted the Roman Town House in Dorchester has officially opened, the only example of a fully exposed Roman Town House in the country.

"Thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, a grant of £248,900 has enabled this stunning and key heritage site to improve access to its grounds with a new entrance and pathways, enhance the visitor experience as well as carry out nature-friendly improvements such as landscaping areas to encourage pollinator friendly plants."

Representatives from partners involved in the project, including Dorset Council, Dorset Museum and The Arts Development Company, gave a series of talks about the work to update the site. The event also featured a performance from local duo, Milk and Two, making it the first musical event at the Town House.

Councillor Noc Lacey-Clarke, cabinet lead member for environment, travel and harbours, attended the event to cut the ribbon and mark the official launch.

He said: "I'd like to say a heartfelt congratulations to all those who have been involved and worked on the project. The changes have been made with creativity and consideration for the site and we look forward to seeing the Roman Town House provide education and enjoyment to many more visitors."

It's hoped the improvements, along with a programme of ticketed events, will help to attract more people to see the Roman Town House. The programme of entertainment events has been organised by the Arts Development Company and will take place over the summer using the event space and the new amphitheatre-style seating.

Guided tours and school visits inside the cover building are available. They give visitors the chance to hear about the different features and see the mosaics, which were cleaned and repaired by specialist conservators as part of the project.

Enhanced visitor information and improved accessibility mean the public can enjoy an overall better experience from their visit. New interpretation boards which have been placed strategically around the site, an audio system and more detailed information in the cover building help to portray its history.

Nature-friendly improvements have helped to make the site a haven for wildlife. This has included landscaping areas to encourage pollinator friendly plants and the installation of bat boxes and hedgehog houses.

The Roman Town House is open to visitors and guided tours can be booked via Dorset Museum.

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