SDO14716 - Land at Cuthbury, Wimborne Minster, Dorset. Archaeological Evaluation Report.

‘Wessex Archaeology was commissioned by Wyatt Homes to carry out an archaeological evaluation comprising of the investigation and recording of sixteen archaeological trial trenches on part of the proposed development site at Cuthbury in Wimborne Minster and is centred on National Grid Reference (NGR) 400400, 099950. This evaluation was undertaken in order to inform the nature and scope of any archaeological mitigation works which may be required in advance of construction associated with the proposed development. A Planning application has been submitted for the Site (ref. 3/16/0002/FUL) with the evaluation forming part of the archaeological mitigation prior to determination of the application. The proposed development comprises of the construction of 210 dwellings; office; cafe and basement parking; new access to Julians Road, vehicular connections to Cuthbury Gardens, Old Road and Victoria Place; demolition of 20 dwellings at Cuthbury Close; associated open space, landscape, roads and footways, footpath diversion, ground and remediation works, infrastructure and highways works; and change of use of agricultural land to Suitable Alternative Natural Green space (SANG). The evaluation was successful in identifying areas in which archaeological remains are present. Nine of the sixteen trenches contained archaeological remains. A number of features were recorded, most of these features were undated but appear prehistoric in character. The excavated features include ditches, shallow pits, and postholes. A possible in situ cremation urn was uncovered and recorded but not excavated, in accordance with the terms of the Ministry of Justice licence. Other similar features were recorded on the surface and left in situ. The pottery recovered from the majority of features is indicative of a Late Bronze Age date, although a small quantity of Neolithic material was also recovered. A medieval pit was also identified. The evaluation highlighted two areas where further mitigation works may be required. The evaluation was completed over a six day period 25th April – 4th May 2016.’