Colchester Borough Council has joined forces with several local heritage champions to purchase a 53-metre section of the town's Roman wall after it was put up for sale.
Advertising firm JCDecaux has planned to auction its interest in the 2,000 year-old monument, however, following further negotiations agreed to conclude it's sale to the council.
The section of wall was sold for the £5000 auction guide price along with costs. The negotiations follow widespread concern that the ancient monument should be in publis ownership.
The council says this collaborative approach has made it possible for the council to strike a deal and ensure this nationally-important heritage asset is preserved for the people of Colchester for the next 2000 years and beyond.