REMAINS of what is believed to be the oldest surviving Christian church in Britain have been awarded official scheduled monument status by Historic England.

The probable Roman-Christian church, located next to Colchester Police Station in Maldon Road, dates back 1,700 years to AD 320, the closing century of the Roman occupation of Britain.

Historians believe it may qualify as the earliest place of Christian worship in the UK but it could also have been a temple to the Roman deity Mithras or even a funeral banqueting hall.

Repair works took place on the remains earlier this year, including work to restore the foundations commissioned by Colchester Council, whilst a new interpretation panel is also set to be installed.

Colchester Council culture boss Julie Young said: “I am delighted the Department for Culture, Media and Sport has agreed with us and given this site the recognition and protection it deserves. The announcement is especially timely, following the completion of renovation work during the summer.

“These remains are a remarkable survivor of our town’s rich Roman past. As a major city with good connections to the wider Roman empire, it is not difficult to imagine Colchester was one of the first places in Britain where Christianity was established.”

Colchester High Steward Sir Bob Russell said the designation was great news for the town and said more should be done to promote the historic remains.

He said: “This good news is not only welcomed by me but I know it will be welcomed by all who value what should be promoted as a major tourist attraction.

“The announcement by Historic England is fantastic news. What is now needed is for the council to put up signs directing people to the site.

“It remains something of a secret – hopefully the new designation by Historic England will encourage the council to put up signs.”

In August, a group of Bronze Age burial mounds, or barrows, was also awarded scheduled monument status after being nominated by the council for inclusion on the National Heritage List for England.

The prehistoric remains, which lie close to Annan Road and the University of Essex, are recognised by Historic England as a rare example of a Bronze Age barrow cemetery.