Surrey Archaeological Society

Evaluation by J Stevenson of SCAU revealed no finds or features of archaeological interest.

Monitoring of the pipe laying by N Shaikhley of SCAU revealed no finds or features of archaeological interest.

Survey and small scale excavation by J English of SyAS on a field system on the Common revealed a complex set of field boundaries, but no dating evidence. Soil samples were taken for soil chemistry and pollen analysis. (342)

Rapid walkover survey directed by J English of SyAS as part of the SCC heathland project. Two areas were examined. In the northern area, close to Mytchett Gate, a series of small banks were identified, which may be the remains of a field system, potentially of some antiquity. Other identified features included possible tracks or tree lines, a number of banks and lynchetts, and two parish boundaries. The southern area at Wyke Common also contained a number of banks, together with an earthwork “fort” of modern date, and evidence for gravel quarrying.

Watching brief by J Boas and C Currie for CKC Archaeology. Documentary and illustrative records show that at least two old buildings of 16th/17th- century date existed on the site before they were demolished in 1937 to make way for the Guildford Labour Exchange. Archaeological recording on the site following the demolition of this latter building showed that most of the site had been disturbed by late post-medieval and 20th century activity.

Watching brief by R Poulton and M Dover of SCAU during remedial works to a post-medieval wall. Earlier walls were revealed, possibly relating to the Great Hall of the 12th and 13th century royal palace

Archaeological recording of the lock by C Currie of CKCA for the National Trust, undertaken during repair works. Two phases of brickwork were recorded. Both sides were made of frogless bricks, suggesting a construction date before 1900 as most likely, with the phases distinguished by different mortar types. Documentary research has revealed that major repairs in concrete were carried out to the lock chamber in 1937, giving it the appearance it had prior to the present works.

Ongoing monitoring of the pipe laying by R King of FA has so far not revealed any finds or features of archaeological interest.

Evaluation by N Rosenberg of JSAC revealed no features of archaeological interest. A small amount of medieval pottery recovered was thought to have been deposited during manuring in the medieval period.

Controlled strip under the supervision of R Poulton of SCAU of land to be used for two dwellings close to the Saxon cemetery excavated by Lowther in 1929. Parts of the site had been levelled in the past, but it is reasonable to conclude that the cemetery did not extend into the site, as work in undisturbed areas did not reveal any finds or features of archaeological interest.