Original article can be viewed at:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/tyne/4661085.stm07 July, 2005
Roman fort site receives £377,000
A popular archaeological site running alongside one of the best preserved sections of Hadrian's Wall is to benefit from a £377,000 overhaul.
The Heritage Lottery Fund has awarded the money to the Vindolanda Roman Fort and Museum site. The cash will be used to improve the main visitor entrance to the attraction which is three miles from Haltwhistle in Northumberland. A classical courtyard, fountain and exhibition areas will also be created.
The money will also be used to create a covered garden walkway which will lead to a display area giving visitors an overview of the history of Vindolanda.
Patricia Birley, director for The Vindolanda Trust, welcomed the grant.
'Heritage assets'
She said: "This superb development project is an imaginative and exciting use of existing buildings and space. The plans combine excellent facilities for visitors of all ages with classical architectural features and exhibitions incorporating stunning film and graphics."
Daily digs for Roman artefacts are run by the charitable Vindolanda Trust at the site which is currently looking for volunteers.
Keith Bartlett, regional manager for the Heritage Lottery Fund, said: "HLF is dedicated to supporting projects that open up our heritage for local people and visitors to learn about and enjoy. "These new facilities and volunteering opportunities will be a great addition to one of the region's most important heritage assets."
Work on the project is scheduled to begin in September and will open to the public in March 2006.