A magnetic gradient survey was undertaken to help establish the presence / absence, extent, character, relationships and date (as far as circumstances and the inherent limitations of the technique permits) of archaeological features within the survey area. The survey was undertaken using a Phase Site Investigations Ltd multi-sensor array cart system (MACS). The MACS comprised 8 Foerster 4.032 Ferex CON 650 gradiometers with a control unit and data logger. The MACS data was collected on profiles spaced 0.5 m apart with readings taken at between 0.1 and 0.15 m intervals. The archaeological and historical background to the site indicates the site has been agricultural land since at least the mid-19th century. The site lies to the north of the medieval core of Wooler and was likely within agricultural land from the medieval period. There is a potential for medieval and post-medieval agricultural activity (ridge and furrow). The geophysical survey results are dominated by a variable magnetic background and responses associated with geological features and natural variations, such as alluvial deposits and possible palaeochannels. It is possible these responses have masked other archaeological sub-surface features. There are strong, variable responses in the south-west of the site due to interference from overhead electricity cables, which have made it difficult to identify other responses in that part of the site. There are several alignments of linear and curvilinear anomalies that could be related to agricultural or drainage features, but it is also possible that some could be archaeological. Other anomalies are present and it is likely the majority of these are related to natural features, however the possibility that some are archaeological cannot be ruled out.
Katie Mountain (Wed,) studied this question.