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From Norfolk Now 19/11/20003
An artist’s impression has given the first glimpse of how Seahenge could look when it finally goes on show to the public in Norfolk.
A display of part of the remarkable Bronze Age timber circle, which was excavated from the shoreline at Holme, near Hunstanton, in 1999, forms the focal point of a £1.2m redevelopment plan for Lynn Museum at King's Lynn.
The outcome of grant applications for £900,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund and £85,000 from Norfolk County Council's capital fund will not be known until spring, but the new-look museum could open in autumn 2005.
The fate of the 4000-year-old monument, hailed as one of the most important discoveries for British archaeology in recent years, was finally resolved in 2001 when English Heritage announced that it would be preserved for future generations.
Yesterday, West Norfolk area museums officer Robin Handley explained that about half the original circle would be displayed – and gave an insight into what visitors had in store.
"The idea is that they would obviously be able to look at the timbers themselves, and the backdrop would be showing it as it was built," he said.
"What we would be looking to do is to treat the circle quite respectfully. That was something that came out quite strongly in a public meeting at Holme.
"We are looking to be quite restrained in the interpretation we put on the circle, using light effects so people get a clear idea of how it would have looked.
"But in terms of telling the story, we would be looking to use a range of devices, including audio wands, so people can select a commentary. The interesting thing about Seahenge is the different levels on which it has a story to tell.
"We are looking to interpret it on a range of levels and give people the opportunity to decide what they want to hear about, but we are also looking to have some discreet computer-style interactives."
As well as Seahenge, the other key element of the scheme is to restore the museum building to its former glory.
"Clearly the other thing we are looking to do – and one of the advantages of having it in the Lynn Museum – will be displaying it in the context of other sites and finds from the area," said Dr Handley. "We have a very good archaeological collection here."
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