Event - Experts to debate Roman remains (Southwell)

Archaeology experts will take part in a conference about the national significance of the Roman remains in Southwell.

The event has been organised by Southwell Heritage Trust, Southwell Community Archaeology Group, Southwell Local History Society and Southwell Civic Society.

They hope to raise awareness of the importance of the remains on Church Street before a planning application for 31 homes on the site is considered by Newark and Sherwood District Council.

The Rev Dr Martin Henig, of Oxford University, Mr Bryn Walters, the director of the Association For Roman Archaeology, archaeologist to Southwell Minster Professor Philip Dixon, and Dr Will Bowden, of Nottingham University, will take part in the debate.

Mr Peter Kent, secretary of Southwell Community Archaeology Group, said it would examine Southwell’s origins and place in the country’s national heritage.

He said: “The relationship between the minster and the earlier villa is clearly of significance in understanding the origins of the town, its subsequent development as an ecclesiastical centre, and the organisation of the surrounding parishes.

“The fact that the minster precincts and their surroundings have seen considerably less post-medieval development than is the case at other cathedrals in Britain and elsewhere, gives the archaeology of Southwell a particular place in our national heritage.”

The archaeology group and others in the town want the site to be preserved so further investigations can take place.

Roman remains were first discovered on the site in 1959.

During recent investigations a large Roman wall was found, leading archaeologists to believe the site either housed a large villa or a temple.

Experts believe the remains may still hold clues as to the links between the remains and the building of the minster.

The meeting will take place on Tuesday, March 29, at 7.30pm, at Southwell Methodist Church.

From: http://www.newarkadvertiser.co.uk/articles/news/Experts-to-debate-Roman-remains

 

Quite simple really - don't let them build on it and finally show some of Nottinghamshires fine archaeology off instead of wasting cash on Robin Hood!