Pre Construct Archaeology

19 High Street, Reigate

Evaluation by E Wragg of PCA prior to development revealed a sequence of mid 17th and 18th century layers and pits, associated with domestic and possibly small-scale industrial activities. Sealed by these deposits was an apparent 13th century horizon of mixed redeposited natural sand and silt. No features were observed in this layer, although only a small area could be examined in the confines of the evaluation trench. Subsequent excavations by H Clough of PCA revealed a large, hitherto unsuspected Medieval water feature, which greatly exceeded the extent of the excavation area.

Queen Elizabeth II Barracks, Guildford

Evaluation and excavation by P Boyer of PCA prior to residential development. Extensive horizontal truncation, probably dating to the establishment of the barracks during World War II, was found across the majority of the site. However, a Roman enclosure dating to the mid/late 1st century AD was revealed, which probably formed part of a wider agricultural landscape. Later 17th and 18th century agricultural features were also identified in the same area, which appeared to have escaped the truncation evident across the rest of the site.

Littleton Manor, Reigate

Soil-stripping, mapping and sampling by S Watson of PCA prior to the formation of a horse jumping area. No finds or features of archaeological interest were revealed. However, naturally occurring deposits of bog iron ore were encountered. Bog iron is formed through percolation of groundwater flowing into wetlands, and is thought to have been a major source of iron during the pre-industrial periods. Its discovery is fairly rare as most deposits appear to have been worked out in antiquity, so its analysis will contribute significantly to studies of pre-industrial iron-working in the region.

St Michael and All Angels’ church, Old London Road, Mickleham

A programme of investigation comprising historic building recording and excavation of inhumations by S Watson of PCA, was undertaken after partial demolition of the current vestry, and the subsequent ground reduction of the site prior to the construction of a new enlarged vestry and during associated drainage works. After the demolition of the vestry (presumed to have been constructed in 1823 with later alterations), the lower part of the northern exterior wall of the chancel was exposed.

Ewell Castle School, Glyn House, Ewell

Evaluation by S Holden of PCA revealed evidence of prehistoric activity in the form of residual finds, a probable gully of early Roman date, and post-medieval remains including an element of an 18th century structure and 19th century landscaping. The evaluation illustrated that archaeological remains lie at a depth that will not be impacted upon by most of the groundworks involved in the development proposed for the site, and they will be preserved in situ beneath it.

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