Ladybridge Farm: Excavation (Site Code lbf07 Intervention 03)

Ladybridge Farm Area 3 Site Meeting Notes

Date: 30th September 2009 11.30am

Present: Steve Timms MGA (ST); Gail Falkingham NYCC (GF); Lucie Hawkins NYCC (LH); Neil Redfern EH (NR); Alan Coe TARMAC (AC)

Introduction

A site meeting was held at Ladybridge Farm to discuss the initial findings in Area 3 following the topsoil strip.

ST briefed the group on the delay in the project due to the judicial review and progress on the site so far. To date Area 3 had been topsoil stripped and all of the potential soil features surveyed. The preliminary hand cleaning of soil features was almost complete. ST also confirmed that the sink holes in Area 2 had been excavated in section and sampled prior to gravel extraction commencing in that area.

A provisional map of the Area 3 was issued to the group showing the location of potential natural and archaeological features on the site.

Of particular note was an area of slightly higher ground located in the western portion of Area 3. The subsoil in this part of the site was characteristically orange in colour, in contrast to the grey of the lower lying ground to the east and north. NR suggested that an aerial photograph would be an excellent way of illustrating the differences in subsoil colour and hence the topography of the site.

The group inspected the majority of soil features and discussed their origins and potential. In summary;

A small number of potential archaeological features had been identified. These were predominantly on the higher ground along the western edge of Area 3. All of these would be excavated in accordance with the WSI.
The majority of the features in Area 3 appeared to be natural in origin either comprising tree throw, sink holes or small anomalies. It was observed that where the tree throws/anomalies occurred in the lower ground, their fills often contained peaty or organic material. This was in contrast to similar features located on the higher ground. These features would be excavated in accordance with the WSI. Where there was any doubt to the origin of feature it would be subject to archaeological excavation.
The nature and potential of the sink holes on the site was discussed. One sink hole towards the eastern edge of Area 3 was noted for its particularly large size.

Discussion

ST stated that the excavation work would progress over the next four to five weeks with a small team of experienced archaeologists.

NR stated that he would ask if it was possible for EH to photograph the site from the air if sorties were being carried out in the area.

ST indicated that the web diary was up and running and would be updated at regular intervals with the results of the investigation.

ST indicated that the original intention was to strip Area 4 with Area 3. AC stated that due to the constraints placed on soil handling by the planning conditions no further topsoil stripping would take place until April 2010.

It was agreed to hold a second meeting in early November on completion of the site works.

archaeological planning consultancy > thornborough > investigations > lbf07 intervention 03: meeting notes, 2009-09-30