Archaeological Desk Based Assessment Yard at Highham Way

Assessment of the likelihood of the proposed development disturbing below-ground archaeological remains The construction of the proposed commercial units, with their associated hardstanding, and the relocation of the substation, will undoubtedly cause significant ground disturbance. It should be noted at this point that the ground beneath the development area has already undergone considerable disturbance. Evidence from historic mapping shows that in the area of the former railway, the ground level was reduced by c. 1m. The area of the former railway turntable to the north of the development area will have been reduced by at least 1.5m. Following the closure of the railway, concrete hardstanding was laid for the cement works. This has been observed as being 200mm in thickness, laid on a hardcore base, formed from the former railway track bed. The extensive ground disturbance across the development area indicates no below-ground archaeological remains will survive.