SNN44143 - Archaeological evaluation of proposed development on land at Gardenways, Blackpot Lane, Oundle

An evaluation was carried out in advance of proposed development at Gardenways, BlackpotLane, Oundle, Northamptonshire. The investigation area lies within a Scheduled Ancient Monument, the site of a Saxon settlement enclosure. Saxon pottery and other artefacts dating from the 6'"_10'" centuries AD have previously been found in close proximity but no actual settlement remains have thus far been identified This investigation uncovered the remains of a collapsed oven or hearth. Although evidence for heat was found, no function was ascertained as the hearth had been thoroughly cleaned before it fell into disuse. Above the hearth were soil horizons containing pottery from local centres such as Stamford and Lyveden. A small quantity of slag and hammerscale was retrieved, suggesting nearby metalworking. These archaeological remains were only found on the west side of the site. Previous disturbance appears to have removed all archaeological deposits from the remaining, eastern, part of the site.