COLCHESTER residents are being invited to help shape a new plan for the only known chariot-racing track in Britain.

Colchester’s Roman Circus is more than 2,000 years old and, once agreed, the new management plan will set out the roles and responsibilities of the council and key stakeholders involved in protecting it.

Proposals extending to the Garrison Conservation Area to include the Army Base Repair Organisation site are also being considered, to help protect the surviving buildings associated with the setting of the circus.

Though its remains are now entirely below ground, the scale of the Roman Circus is impressive, being about 450 metres in length, with an estimated seating capacity of 8,000.

The plan is to provide a vision and framework for its conservation, enhancement and presentation over the next five years and beyond.

Following the consultation exercise, which started yesterday, the management plan could then be amended to become supplementary planning guidance, which would further protect the monument and its setting from redevelopment.

It was discovered in 2005 within the site of the old garrison and is a scheduled monument – meaning it currently receives the same status and protection as other heritage sites such as Colchester Castle, the Balkerne Gate and the Roman Walls.

Councillor Julie Young, portfolio holder responsible for culture and performance and deputy leader of the Council, said she encourages as many people as possible to have their say in these consultations.

Anyone wishing to take part in the Roman Circus Management Plan should visit: www.colchester.gov.uk/romancircus