SNN107618 - An Archaeological Evaluation at Cherry Orchard School, Weston Favell, Northampton

An archaeological field evaluation by trial trenching was undertaken on land at the former Cherry Orchard Middle School, Weston Favell, Northampton (SP 7847 6233) by the University of Leicester Archaeological Services (ULAS) between 30th November 2010 and 21st December 2010. The initial potential of the site was highlighted by information held in the Northamptonshire Historic Environment Record and subsequent geophysical survey which was conducted within the application area. This highlighted the potential for archaeological features to be present within the proposed area for a new residential development. The evaluation forms part of an archaeological impact assessment of the proposed development. A total of 15 trenches and a test pit were excavated in order to target the possible features previously identified by the geophysical survey as well as to evaluate apparently ‘archaeologically blank’ areas of the site. Positive results were recorded in five of the excavated trenches mostly confirming the geophysical anomalies as well as recording features not previously located. The trenches in the northern area of the site targeted a feature that proved to be modern in origin. However Early Roman features dating to the mid and late 1st century AD were revealed in trench 2 that are likely to be contemporary with a pottery kiln found close by the 1950s. In the central part of the site further Roman activity was recorded within in trenches 4,9 8 and 9. Features including ditches, pits and post-holes that dated slightly later, to the early-mid 2nd century AD were recorded. A possible earlier gully was found in trench 9 that could be transitional 1st century AD in origin. Small scale quarrying was also recorded in this area, some of which may be early in date. To the southern and eastern areas of the site extensive quarrying was recorded which has removed any potential further archaeological deposits to still remain within these parts of the site. The site archive will be held by ULAS under the accession number CS10 until a suitable storage space is allocated for its deposition in Northamptonshire.