EDO8187 - Yetminster (YETM) E4L5 - 11kV Pole Replacements, Bradford Abbas; observations and recording 2025

OASIS: Project Methodology: Wessex Archaeology was commissioned to undertake archaeological monitoring and recording (AMR) during the removal and replacement of four electricity poles at Bradford Abbas, Dorset, DT9 6SG. The works were undertaken as part of the Yetminster (YETM) E4L5 – 11kV Circuit Network Improvement Scheme. Due to being located within the bounds of Scheduled Monument: Roman Villa SE of East Farm (NHLE 1002414), Scheduled Monument Consent was applied for and granted prior to the commencement of works (SMC Ref. S00247170). Upon further investigation of the poles initially proposed to be replaced, the scope of works was updated. Pole 8 was not replaced, and neither were the stay(s) at Pole 7, leading to a total replacement of three poles (Poles 7, 9 and 10) and replacement block and stay at one location (Pole 10). Poles 7 and 9 were removed and their existing postholes cleared of debris, no archaeological remains were observed during these works. A new pole was then inserted at Pole 7 location, whilst stability issues led to a small excavation measuring approximately 1 m in length and 0.2 m in depth at Pole 9 location. This excavation remained within the topsoil. For the works at Pole 10 two slit trenches were required. These measured approximately 2 m in length and 0.5 m in width. All works were archaeologically monitored. Project Results: No archaeological features or deposits were present in either excavation, with the trench for the stay replacement revealing limestone bedrock at 0.9 m below ground level (85.8 m above Ordnance Datum). The soil sequence across the site was consistent, topsoil overlay a subsoil which sealed natural geology. A small finds assemblage comprising a single metal object and pottery was recovered from the topsoil during the works. Further investigation of these finds confirmed that these pieces were residual within disturbed contexts with the pottery in particular appearing worn and fragmented, such that it is likely the medieval to post-medieval sherds are likely to have been brought in through modern agricultural activity. The single metal object has also been attributed to modern agricultural equipment. The recovered worked flint also appeared worn and abraded indicative of being residual within disturbed deposit(s). However, it is suggestive of a background of pre-Bronze Age activity within the wider area.