PLANS are being discussed to bring the site of a Roman villa in Newnham into public ownership, allowing archaeologists to carry out a complete excavation.

The villa was discovered by Freeman Homes in 2025 and has been described as the first of its kind found in the Forest of Dean because of its “elite” mosaic floor.

Newnham-on-Severn Parish Council is in talks with the developer over potentially taking ownership of the site, amid concerns that without intervention it could remain protected but unexplored.

Resident and amateur historian Don Mace-Wright said archaeological sites preserved following development were rarely reopened for further investigation.

The villa was partially excavated last year, when archaeologists uncovered the mosaic along with coins and shards of glass.

Professor of archaeology Mark Horton said the discovery was significant for the Forest and suggested the villa may have formed part of an industrial complex linked to ironworking.

Roman archaeology in Gloucestershire has traditionally focused on Gloucester and Cirencester, where remains have been uncovered.

However, Mr Mace-Wright believes the Newnham discovery could provide evidence of a different kind of Roman settlement west of the River Severn.

He said the site suggested people living in the Forest may have been involved in industrial activity, contrasting with the agricultural country house-style villas associated with the Cotswolds.

Retired surveyor and amateur archaeologist Gordon McDonald said the area's iron resources could have supported trade, using the River Severn and Roman road network connecting Gloucester and Cirencester.

Fewer than six Roman villas have been identified in the Forest of Dean and only a few have been excavated.

Freeman Homes said it was excited by the discovery and confirmed the discovery would not affect its development of 46 homes.

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Parish council leaders said discussions with the developer over the purchase of the villa site were continuing.