SDO21051 - Land at Back Lane, Bere Regis, Dorset. Detailed Gradiometer Survey Report

‘A detailed gradiometer survey was conducted over land at Back Lane, Bere Regis, Dorset (centred on NGR 384432 095111). The project was commissioned by Wyatt Homes Ltd. with the aim of establishing the presence, or otherwise, and nature of detectable archaeological features in support of a planning application for the development of the site as a residential development. The site comprises arable fields located in the north of the village of Bere Regis and covers an area of 2.7 ha. The geophysical survey was undertaken on 4 November 2022 and 2 February 2023. The survey has not identified any anomalies that can be confidently interpreted as archaeology. Two ditch-like features have been interpreted as possible archaeology and, given the wider prehistoric landscape, could relate to the remains of a funerary monument or small enclosure. However, they more likely relate to agricultural activity or natural geological variation. The majority of the anomalies identify correspond with features noted on historical mapping or aerial photographs. Across the east of the site, the remains of allotments and a track way are noted. These are recorded on 1892 OS mapping. Across the west of the site are boundary and track features that are either recorded on 1892 OS mapping or conform with the general layout of field boundaries from that date. The entire site displays an increased background magnetic response. This response is stronger in the west where it may relate to construction of the nearby roads, agricultural practices, or landscaping. ‘