SDO10451 - 59-61 High Street, Christchurch, Dorset. Archaeological Desk-based Assessment

Wessex Archaeology was commissioned by Cheshire Robbins Design Limited to undertake an archaeological desk-based assessment of a proposed development site, totalling approximately 195m2, at the rear of 59-61 High Street, Christchurch, Dorset (hereafter the Site), with a Study Area of c. 200m radius centred on NGR 415860 092720. The assessment was undertaken in order to collate the available archaeological information about the Site and assess the likely impact of the proposed development on any archaeological deposits that might be present. The Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment has shown that there is little potential for prehistoric and Romano-British remains within the Site and, although it lies within the Late Saxon burh, there is probably only low potential for features or finds of Anglo-Saxon date. This reflects the 'backland' location of the Site and the likelihood, demonstrated by earlier excavations in the vicinity, that Late Saxon occupation was at a relatively low density within the area enclosed by the defences and has generally left little trace. There is high potential for Medieval evidence, particularly of 13th century date when there appears to have been a substantial and rapid increase in the density of settlement within the town. This evidence might include, based on the results of earlier excavations in Christchurch, a scatter of stake-holes, post-holes, gullies / ditches and pits, rather than structural remains. There is also likely to be moderate to high potential for Post-medieval remains, similar in nature to that of the Medieval period. The high potential for Medieval (and Post-medieval) remains, probably largely undisturbed by 19th and 20th century development, should, however, be seen in the context of existing Site constraints. In particular, part of the relatively small area comprising the Site is occupied by a rear extension to 59 High Street and associated paths providing access to this and 61 High Street. Furthermore, a building and wall immediately to the north and a boundary wall to the south, as well as at least one service crossing the Site, will considerably restrict the currently available area for archaeological investigation in advance of redevelopment.