Their Royal Highnesses, the Earl and Countess of Wessex, visited the Roman Baths on Monday this week to reopen the newly-renovated Temple Precinct as part of a tour of Bath, which also included a visit to Bath Abbey.

Their Royal Highnesses saw how the uncovering of the Roman Temple Precinct has increased space for visitors and revealed more of the ancient monument. The display of the gilt bronze head of the goddess, Sulis Minerva, has been completely redesigned and a tactile model put in place for the benefit of visitors who may be partially sighted.

B&NES Council has made major improvements to the Roman Baths, including opening up a new, previously hidden area and improving access for visitors. A new suspended walkway has also been put in place above the Temple Precinct, giving visitors an aerial view of the ancient monument below. Full wheelchair access will follow in the autumn when two new lifts are installed. New lighting is also now in place, using 80% less energy than before, but is also better quality.

B&NES Council's Head of Heritage Services, Stephen Bird, said: "We're delighted that the Earl and Countess of Wessex came to Bath to officially reopen the Temple Precinct.

"These improvements to the Roman Baths will make the experience much better for our visitors. The imaginative lighting scheme also supports the Council's drive to reduce energy bills and energy consumption."