EDO6535 - Knighton Lane, Bearwood, Poole; geophysical survey 2018

Detailed gradiometer survey of several arable fields, in total 33.3 ha in area, proposed for residential development. A number of anomalies of probable archaeological origin were identified in the north-eastern part of the survey area, as well as many more anomalies of possible archaeological interest throughout. The anomalies in the north-eastern area were interpreted as a possible settlement consisting of a series of enclosures divided by drove ways, and the form of these suggested an Iron Age/Romano-British date. At least two possible phases of activity were identified. Several other anomalies across the site may also relate to settlement activity. These include two possible rectilinear enclosures and an area of three possible ring ditches. An area of semi-coherent, magnetically strong responses suggestive of fired material or made ground, was tentatively interpreted as the burnt-down remains of a structure. No evidence was of a poorly defined ditch recorded by a previous excavation. However numerous pit-like anomalies are recorded across the site. It is possible that some of these have an archaeological origin, although the anomalies may be due to natural pitting in the bedrock. The survey also identified evidence of ridge and furrow across the area, as well as several former field boundaries. This suggests that the area has been used for agricultural activity since at least the post-medieval period. Remaining anomalies were thought to be modern or natural in origin. The modern anomalies include services, pylons, and other ferrous objects.