SNN116667 - Green Hill Solar Project, Sites C, D and E, Northamptonshire: Geophysical Survey (Interim report)

A geophysical (gradiometer) survey was undertaken on approximately 406 hectares of land associated with Areas C, D and E of the Green Hill Solar Project, Wellingborough, Northants. Significant archaeological anomalies have been recorded which include large settlements, double ditched large enclosures, ring ditches, trackways and field systems along with numerous ditches and pits indicative of activity over a probable prehistoric to medieval timeframe. Agricultural anomalies include former field boundaries, medieval/post-medieval ridge and furrow cultivation, modern ploughing and land drains. Magnetic disturbance can be attributed to adjacent tracks and metal fencing within field boundaries. Service pipes originating from a modern substation in Green Hill E have also been recorded. Uncertain anomalies recorded within the data may also have an anthropogenic origin. Geological responses seen within the dataset reflect either the topography of the site, possible quarrying, sub-surface fluid dynamics, or discrete pockets of natural variations. Based on the geophysical survey, the archaeological potential of this area is deemed to be high where there are areas of archaeological activity and low elsewhere.