SNN115129 - Archaeological Excavations: Area A, White Mills Marina, Earls Barton, Northamptonshire

During July 2015 Phoenix Consulting Archaeology Ltd carried out an archaeological area excavation at a site known as White Mills Marina, Earls Barton, Northampton (NGR SP 8566 6210). The work was carried out on behalf of John Skinner Esq. in response to a planning condition requiring a scheme of archaeological works to be implemented prior to permitted development. The development is for the creation of a 140 berth marina and associated infrastructure. Prior to the phase of mitigation the site had been evaluated by desk-based assessment geophysical survey and trial trenching. These works culminated in the identification of a single undated ditch in one of the trenches1. The Council Archaeological Office therefore requested the further examination of this feature prior to earth moving operations in the vicinity. It was agreed that an area measuring 20m x 30m be investigated. Following the opening up of the area, two ditches were identified, one relating to the previously recorded feature. Despite comprehensive investigation neither ditch contained any secure dating evidence, although one clearly post-dated the other. As they are not depicted on any accessed historical maps for the area, they are likely to be of pre-19th century date and relate to the drainage of the higher ground to the north. The general lack of dateable artefacts suggests that the ditches are not associated with any form of contemporary settlement. This is not surprising, as the site is in an area that has been susceptible to complete inundation from the river throughout historic times.