SNN102460 - Archaeological Evaluation on Land off Islington Road, Towcester, Northamptonshire

An archaeological evaluation was undertaken on a plot of land off Islington Road, Towcester, Northamptonshire, in June 2001. The evaluation revealed evidence for marginal domestic 'backyard' activity, broadly dating to the Roman period, probably associated with dwellings fronting onto Watling Street. There was no evidence for industrial activity. These remains were sealed by a 'dark earth' deposit, up to 0.6m thick, which extended over the entire site. This layer appears to date to the late Roman to sub-Roman period, and its formation is probably associated with a change from suburban settlement to agricultural use. Evidence for later activity is restricted to a large pit dating to the C17th or later, and the construction of a boundary wall of similar date.