A £5.5 million, five-year project by Bath and North East Somerset Council to renovate The Roman Baths for the first time in a decade has transformed the look and layout of the hot springs, suite of baths and remains of the Temple of Sulis Minerva.

The Development Plan aimed to reinvigorate the "very difficult site" as a leading tourist destination full of "wow moments" in a family-friendly, interactive experience with a high-tech design.

The central Great Bath has been "decluttered", and Roman and Victorian masonry has been cleaned and strengthened through laser technology.

Two lifts will transport visitors through the listed building and ancient monument, and audio tours – including one voiced by Bill Bryson – support costumed interpreters based on characters in ancient inscriptions. The on-site shops have also been expanded.

The project has already won national recognition. Able Radio, the online station for the special needs community, gave it a Gold Award for its "phenomenal" success in improving the accessibility of the venue.