HARLOW’S famous Roman Temple site, which would have been one of the most important Roman temples in southern Britain, is set to benefit from improvements to its surrounding area thanks to Section 106 funding.

The site is located in the area now known as Templefields and has a long history. Even before the Romans arrived it was a settlement with several farms and an Iron Age temple. When the Romans arrived, they settled on the pre-existing temple and re-dedicated worship to Minerva, the goddess of wisdom and war.

Utilising Section 106 funding from the Vinter House development, proposals are now in place to improve this important historical site. Proposed works, to be being carried out by the council, include improving the steps of the temple as part of the site’s overall maintenance, boundary fencing and gate replacements. This will help to ensure the security of the site and its overall appearance for visitors.  

To further improve accessibility to the site, Harlow Art Trust are working in partnership with Harlow Creates and the council to commission a new piece of public art and deliver community engagement activities in the area. Artists will be asked to respond to a brief giving background to the site’s archaeological heritage, its industrial use and will also draw attention to nearby River Stort.

These works will all be completed by the end of the year and will greatly improve the visibility and accessibility of this site for all visitors and residents to enjoy.

Councillor Andrew Johnson, Chair of Harlow Council, said “I am pleased to announce that this work will be taking place in 2025. Harlow’s Roman Temple site would have been one the most important Roman Temples in Southern Britain. It’s with great joy that we are able to raise awareness of this and improve access to the site so that many more people can engage with and learn about Harlow’s rich heritage. Anyone interested in finding out more about this fascinating period in Harlow’s history can visit the Roman Gallery at Harlow Museum and Walled Garden where many of the treasures excavated from the temple site are now displayed”.