Roman history museum in Melrose gets £395k for major expansion
A museum in Melrose is to receive almost £400,000 towards a major expansion and refurbishment.
It is hoped the investment in the Trimontium Museum will lead to a large increase in tourism in the Borders town.
The South of Scotland Economic Partnership awarded the Trimontium Trust the funding to help towards a million pound refurbishment.
Trimontium is the name of a Roman fort and was used as an advance solider post, which was set up in the first and second centuries AD.
Tools, remains of Roman glassmaking, pottery, saddlery and more were discovered when the site was excavated, and put on display.
Dr John Reid, Chair of the Trimontium Trust said: "The Trust is grateful to SoSEP and Scottish Government and our other partners for supporting our vision to develop this to a scale and quality which compliments the other excellent attractions in Melrose and the wider Borders.
He continues: "Newstead Roman Fort, lies in an area incredibly rich in historical heritage. The Trimontium Trust has been proud to share its story for over twenty-five years from our small museum in Melrose overlooked by the ancient hillfort on Eildon Hill."
The funding will be used to develop a learning programme which will enable visitors to contribute to archaeological research
Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing said: “Our tourism industry plays a vital part in the Scottish economy. People choose to visit Scotland for our culture, heritage and scenery. This SOSEP funding in the South of Scotland will help support and maximise the economic potential of that region.”
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