New group of experts to 'champion' Colchester's Roman Circus

Twenty years after the discovery of the  Roman Circus, a group has been formed to bring together some of Colchester’s most experienced heritage experts who all want to see the city make the most of its unique treasure.

The circus is the only chariot racecourse ever discovered in Britain and Northern Europe, making it a site of national and international significance.

It measured 450m in length and had an estimated seating capacity of 8,000.

Huge - The Roman Circus was an incredible structure used for entertainment and chariot racing (Image: Newsquest) In recent weeks, preservation of the site has been part of intense discussions after plans were submitted for a housing development of over 200 homes on Flagstaff Road.

A decision on the planning application is expected to come from Colchester Council this week.

The new group has the backing of Colchester’s current MP Pam Cox and her predecessors Will Quince and Sir Bob Russell.

It also includes representatives from Colchester Archaeological Trust, who discovered the circus in 2004, North Essex Heritage, who are leading on the restoration of Jumbo, and the Colchester Civic Society.

Group - Heritage and archaeological experts have come together to champion the Roman Circus (Image: Submitted) The acting chair of the group, architect John Burton MBE, said: “Tourists are the greatest potential generator of Colchester’s wealth drawn to our city by its history and archaeology which must therefore be cared for and presented to maximum advantage.

“We will assist in realising and enhancing the council’s approved Roman Circus management plan, as a key element in the city-wide tourist offer and provide residents with a city to be proud of.”

The Roman Circus Management Plan was approved by Colchester Council in 2021.

It sets out the framework for the conservation, enhancement, interpretation, presentation and celebration of Colchester Roman Circus for the next five years.

Decision - Colchester Council will decide the fate of the housing development at the site this Thursday (Image: Newsquest) Pam Cox said: “The city council has approved a good management plan for the circus which calls for the site to become ‘an important visitor attraction’ and I think this group will help to make that happen.

“I really want to see it succeed and will do everything I can to support this new initiative.”

The plans for the housing development go before the committee on Thursday evening, November 7.