A final piece of restoration work is set to preserve a Prestatyn slice of history for future generations.
Work has been carried out at the Prestatyn Roman Baths to help protect and restore the historical site at Melyd Avenue.
The hidden gem was first discovered in the 1930’s during a round of excavations on the site. It was then covered, only to be excavated again in the 1980s, during the construction of the neighbouring housing estate. It is believed that the Bath House was constructed in around 120AD, and further extended in 150 AD.
There is some debate over the reasons for its location in Prestatyn. However, it is believed to be linked to the Roman legions in Chester and Caernarfon, lying around halfway between the two.
It may also have been associated with a nearby harbour, due to its coastal location.
The Roman Baths is looked after and manged by Denbighshire Countryside Services who have carried out a programme of restoring the area.
Recent restoration work carried out by Ben Davies who specialises in restoration work on the site included restoring the remains as last time they were worked on, the stone was put back in place with cement which is not ideal.
Ben, who is also an artist, has been removing this and putting stones back in their original position but using lime mortar instead. Lime mortar is what would have been used historically and allows for expansion/contraction during temperature changes helping to preserve the original stone (preventing cracking etc.)
Voids have also been filled to prevent water sitting on the remains and subsequent frost damage.
Countryside rangers alongside volunteers supported by the Nature for Health Programme also carried out work to improve the footpaths at the site.
Councillor Alan James, Lead Member for Local Development and Planning said: “This important site really is one of Prestayn’s ‘hidden jewels’ and we are grateful to all who have been involved in restoring and preserving this historical area.
“I would encourage anyone who is interested in history to come and visit the Roman Bath House to view this slice of ancient times that proudly sits in Prestatyn.”
