Local archaeology group CLASP (Community Landscape and Archaeology Survey Project) is inviting residents to attend a meeting in Daventry on Tuesday, September 16, to discuss ways of conserving archaeology in the face of proposed major developments in Towcester, Daventry and Northampton.

CLASP, an umbrella group made up of Northants archaeology societies and individual enthusiasts, is engaged in a project to define the rich Romano-British landscape of the area.

It is liaising with West Northamptonshire Development Corporation, which is delivering the housing growth in the district.

Relationships between former Roman towns such as Towcester (Lactodurum), Whilton near Daventry (Bannaventa), and rural settlements and villas will also be explored.

CLASP secretary Dave Hayward MBE, from Nether Heyford, said: "What we're interested in doing is ensuring that proper consideration is given, through the planning process, to help identify and properly preserve local archaeology."

Possibly the oldest town in Northants, Towcester has a wealth of Roman heritage.

Built as a garrison town along the great Roman road of Watling Street, now the A5, the town is thought to have lain at the junction of other minor roads.

Mr Hayward added: "Watling Street is well-known, but there are other routes. Towcester was almost a Roman nerve centre, especially the west side of the town, which is the area that could be subject to development."

The remains of an ancient Roman tower, part of Towcester's town wall fortifications, are thought to have been demolished in the 1960s.
Potterspury near Towcester has also been suggested as the site of the final battle between Celtic leader Boudicca and the Roman legions.

"The site of the battle is probably north of St Albans and south of Anglesea, but where it was exactly I wouldn't like to say!," said Mr Hayward.

The meeting starts at 7.30pm in the Saxon Suite, Daventry Leisure Centre. Admission is free.