Trial Trench at Aspen, Abernethy

An archaeological trial trench evaluation was undertaken on land immediately north of the A913, 1km north-east of Abernethy, Perth & Kinross. The work was carried out to fulfil the requirements of both Phase 1 and Phase 2 planning applications for battery storage units (planning application ref. 22/00746/FLM & 22/02217/FLL respectively). A total of 16 trial trenches were excavated which totalled 841 sq. m. They were positioned to target a number of potential linear features noted through geophysical survey. The trial trenching showed that the linear features noted through geophysical survey were either geological or very ephemeral and possibly relating to more recent farming practices. The terminus end of a ditch or possible elongated pit was revealed in the south-western part of the site. This feature contained charcoal flecks, animal bone, burnt bone and a single sherd of green glaze pottery. No other significant archaeological remains or deposits were uncovered during the trial trenching.