SNN115526 - Land off Cotterstock Road, Glapthorn, Northamptonshire: Interim Post-Excavation Statement: Archaeological Strip, Map and Record Investigation

The document presents an interim summary of results of archaeological mitigatory works required as a condition of planning permission for residential development of the site. Its potential archaeological sensitivity was initially recognised through its location within the historic core of the village as depicted on historic mapping, and proximity to surviving traces of former settlement extent as earthworks. Archaeological trial trenching of the site had previously revealed features and artefacts indicative of medieval occupation in the immediate vicinity of the development. The subsequent strip, map and record investigation confirmed the general conclusions of the trial trenching , whilst the more extensive area examined enabled some clarification of the pattern of occupation. This statement presents a preliminary summary of the results of the project pending completion of specialist study of the artefacts. Final conclusions will collate results of analysis of the artefacts with stratigraphic data generated by the fieldwork. Remains of stone walling along the northwestern edge of the site (the modern Cotterstock Road frontage) can be interpreted as a series of buildings, possibly up to six, aligned along the south side of the road. Vestiges of pitched stone or yard surfacing, the remains of a hearth and other indications of fire residue provide further evidence for medieval period habitation within the site area. It seems likely that the site became occupied following a localised episode of limestone quarrying towards the northeastern end of the investigation area. Historic mapping from 1614 depicts the site area as unoccupied, and its abandonment early in the post-medieval period is also suggested by artefactual evidence from the trial trenching phase of the project.