SDO21213 - Land at Elm Close, Sturminster Newton: Detailed Gradiometer Survey Report

‘A detailed gradiometer survey was conducted over land at Elm Close, Sturminster Newton, Dorset (centred on NGR 379260 114225). 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. The site comprises three arable fields located south-east of Sturminster Newton, covering an area of 7.9 ha. The geophysical survey was undertaken between 8 and 9 October 2019 and has demonstrated the presence of a number of anomalies of possible archaeological origin throughout the survey area. Several circular features have been identified that could indicate round barrows. In addition, numerous linear anomalies could indicate boundary features, such as ditches that pre-date those visible on the available historical mapping. A possible squared enclosure has also been identified. However, this interpretation should be considered tentative. It is considered more likely that these are associated with natural variation in the underlying superficial geology of the area. In addition, evidence of the historic pattern of land division has been identified that correlates with features visible on the 1840 Sturminster Newton Tithe map in the south-west and eastern part of the site. Evidence of localised variation in the underlying geological deposits has also been identified extensively across the site, however it is difficult to ascertain whether this is associated with variation in the river terrace or head deposits which are both recorded in this area. The remaining anomalies identified are thought to be modern, pertaining to ploughing and services.’