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Search the Public Notice PortalThe site of a historic Roman villa in Orpington is set for a major refurbishment - here is everything we know about the works.
Crofton Roman Villa is about to undergo a significant revamp to improve facilities and introduce a new interactive visitor experience.
The makeover was first floated last year, with residents sharing their thoughts on the plans across a series of consultation events in June.
Following a £250,000 grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund - and planning approval in September - Bromley Council was able to move forward with the works, announcing an expected start date in early 2026.
The council has since confirmed that the refurbishment is not yet underway, although the News Shopper understands there will be an update in the coming weeks.
The ancient site in Crofton Road, which is the only publicly accessible Roman villa in London, already features 10 rooms preserved within a public viewing building, including mosaic tiles and an underfloor heating system known as a hypocaust.
However, existing displays are set to be revamped to add educational panels, wall murals, and window graphics - as well as a new "handling collection" which will allow visitors to engage more closely with the villa's history.
Other upgrades include a new roof, replacement doors and windows, accessible toilets and fresh signage.
Yvonne Bear, Bromley Council’s executive councillor for renewal, recreation and housing, said that for the first time the "whole story" of Crofton Roman Villa will be told.
She said: "This covers its origins as an Iron Age hut to its glory in the centre of a huge estate in Roman Britain, right through to its rediscovery in the 20th century after it was lost during the fall of the Roman Empire.
"This project is about ensuring residents get the most out of their visits to learn about the incredible history of this ancient site, which is such a proud part of the borough’s heritage."
The villa is now closed to the public and school groups until after the refurbishment is finished, which is expected to be this summer.
School visits will be able to resume from September, the council has confirmed, while the opportunities for the public to visit the villa will be available from summer.
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