SDO16786 - Matcham's Stadium, Ringwood, Dorset

‘Wessex Archaeology was commissioned by Eaglebeam Ltd to undertake an archaeological desk-based assessment for Matchams Stadium, Ringwood, centred on NGR 412625 100800. The Site lies immediately west of the main A338 Ringwood to Bournemouth road, approximately 5.5-km southwest of Ringwood. The purpose of the assessment was to collate information on known or potential archaeological resources within the Site and a wider Study Area (c. 4.6 sq. km). This information is intended to assess the general context of the site prior to the submission of a planning application for residential development. No evidence for archaeological activity within the Site has been identified. The known archaeological evidence within the Study Area consists of a bowl barrow group (a Scheduled Ancient Monument), one isolated bowl barrow, two mid- 18th century farms, a dismantled 19th century railroad, two 20th century farms, and an undated circular feature were identified as well. No Listed buildings were recorded within the Site or the Study Area. Immediately outside the Study Area, and of importance to understanding the historical context of the Site, is a second bowl barrow group (also a Scheduled Ancient Monument), and four individual bowl barrows (one of which is a Scheduled Ancient Monument). The archaeological resource identified in the Study Area around the Site consists mainly of prehistoric sites and monuments. It is this evidence of prehistoric activity that suggests archaeological potential around the Site. However, it is unlikely that the Site itself contains such a potential due to modern development and extensive disturbance. No further work is recommended in the Site.’