Geophysical Survey at Land at Borden, Sittingbourne, Kent

Data was collected using a cart carrying four paired Bartington magnetic sensors. Four sensors mounted 1m horizontally apart and very accurately aligned to nullify the effects of the earth's magnetic field. Readings relate to the difference in localised magnetic anomalies compared with the general magnetic background. Each data point is geographically referenced using an on-board Trimble RTK survey grade GPS system. Readings were taken at 0.125m centres along traverses 1.0m apart. Readings relate to the difference in localised magnetic anomalies compared with the general magnetic background. The magnetometer survey has recorded magnetic responses that have been interpreted as being of possible archaeological interest. Discrete anomalies and linear trends are visible in the survey data and a cluster of these responses could mark the location of a possible building, which has been heavily plough damaged. However, it would be difficult to argue that the magnetic results are indicative of "the rest of the 'winged' villa awaiting discovery to the north-east" as suggested in the excavation report (KAFS 2023); a less substantial structure is perhaps more likely. Numerous responses of uncertain origin have been also marked. While some of these anomalies could have archaeological origins, the majority have probably been caused by a combination of natural processes and relatively recent agricultural processes. Modern ploughing is also visible across the magnetic data.