Dorchester Cable Route, Dorchester, Dorset: an archaeological watching brief

Key Points

• The aim was to monitor archaeological elements during cable trench excavation.
• Archaeological monitoring conducted during excavation of an 830m long cable trench.
• Observation of various archaeological features despite previous service disturbances.
• Collection and assessment of dating evidence from the exposed layers.
• Surviving elements of the Roman defensive circuit were identified at multiple locations.
• Observations included rampart deposits, sections of wall, and a ditch.
• Dating evidence was limited, indicating features broadly from the middle to late Roman period.