Evaluation at Land to the rear of 64-68 Ousegate, Selby

The evaluation comprised the excavation of two trenches, as detailed in a written scheme of investigation, which had been approved by the North Yorkshire Council Principal Archaeologist (OSA, May 2024). Each trench was c.5m x 5m at the modern ground surface. Following initial machining under archaeological supervision, to a depth of 1m, a deeper central sondage was excavated to the surface of the natural. The trench was then hand cleaned and inspected for potential archaeological features, which were subject to sample excavation. The trenching suggests that if any archaeological remains are present on site, outside the areas covered by the trenches themselves, then these would take the form of cut features into the natural, at a maximum level of between 4.85m and 4.90m AOD. If a foundation design could be implemented that went no deeper than 5.20m AOD, the potential to impact archaeological features or deposits would be avoided. This level would equate to 1m below the surface of the car park immediately adjacent to the site to the west. Given the results of this evaluation there should be no archaeological reason for development to be prevented at this site. Any decision regarding the need for further investigation would be made by Peter Rowe (North Yorkshire Council Principal Archaeologist) and the Local Planning Authority on the basis of the details of the proposed development.