In addition to our planning, design and environmental planning roles, we were responsible for the heritage impact assessment for this development which was approved in June 2015.
Having been responsible for managing all the surveys required to determine the archaeological potential of the site, we were retained by Bloor Homes to manage the discharge of the archaeological condition. We undertook tendering and developed a scope of works in consultation with the Dorset County Archaeologist.
The subsequent excavations by Bournemouth Archaeology and Wessex Archaeology uncovered a number of features and finds. These included two Mesolithic axeheads, which appear to have been unused, along with scrapers, cores and a leaf-shaped arrowhead. Also uncovered were pits and postholes of Late Bronze Age/early Iron Age date which indicate three, possibly domestic, structures with surrounding enclosure ditch. Other parts of the site yielded medieval and post-medieval features.
These discoveries have added greatly to the archaeological knowledge of this market town. We also ensured that the excavations delivered on public outreach and engagement with the Dorset Natural History and Archaeological Society.
