SNN108049 - Northdale End, Raunds, Northamptonshire: Archaeological Trial Trenching Summary of Results

Barwood Land and Estates Ltd are promoting a site at Northdale End, Raunds, Northamptonshire for mixed-use development. The application area covers c.16hectares and is centred NGR 500190 273400. As part of this process the company have undertaken an archaeological evaluation of the site comprising a desk-based assessment (PCA 2009), an archaeo-geophysical survey (Bartlett, 2010) and trial trenching. The evaluation is being carried out to assess the extent, nature and survival of archaeological features within those parts of the site where an impact on archaeological remains is probable. Thirty trenches were targeted where the geophysical survey had indicated the presence of suspected archaeology as well as in the seemingly ‘blank’ areas. The works were carried out between 29th April and 21st May 2010. Fives zones of archaeological potential were identified; the southern extent of field 1, the eastern extent of field 2, field 3, the western extent of field 4 and the western extent of field 5. In addition an isolated, suspected cremation was identified in field 6 (trench 23). These trenches indicated the presence of previous settlement and associated activities in the form of archaeological features (pits, wall foundations, ditches and other linear features). The pottery found within these features suggests settlement of medieval date. Evidence of past agricultural activity identified in the form of ridge and furrow (fields 1 and 2). A number of areas were devoid of archaeological activity, especially the northern and central part of field 1, the western part of field 2, the eastern part of field 5 and most of field 6.