A NEGLECTED historical landmark in Cirencester is soon become a vibrant part of the community.

The Roman Amphitheatre, based near Chesterton and only a ten minute walk from Cirencester town centre, has been sitting unused for years.

Built in the early 2nd century with a capacity of 8,000 people, it remains one of the largest Roman amphitheatres in Britain.

It was a prominent part of the Roman city of Corinium, now Cirencester, which was then the second largest and most important city in Britain, after London.

The amphitheatre is often referred to as “hard to find” but Cirencester Town Council plans to change that with a brand new masterplan.

A footpath will be created from the Corinium Museum, Querns Wood will be opened as a community woodland and an eco centre will be created for schools and community groups to use.

“The amphitheatre is a strategically important green space,”said town council chief executive Andrew Tubb.

“We’ve been working for quite a while now with various stake holders on this plan. We plan to have gateways into the complex connecting to the town as well as an education zone, adventure zone and discovery zone where visitors can explore spaces with archaeological importance.”

“We’re coming back in July with the final draft but need to make a timeline for delivery, costings and more information on funding.”

The project masterplan also includes creating an event space at the Amphitheatre, temporary event parking, a new and appealing entrance to the complex, and opening up the nearby Querns Wood for volunteering opportunities.

The Whereat Trail, named after former Cirencester mayor Norman Whereat, will be built as a pedestrian route from the Corinium Museum to the Amphitheatre complex to make the area easier to find.