SDO154 - Wareham Oilfield Development Proposals: Wellsite C to D [PSP] (Option 3) Interim Archaeological Report

A summary of work carried out by Wessex Archaeology for BP Petroleum Development Ltd along parts of the proposed route of a pipeline, adjacent to one of the Battery Banks at Worgret (Scheduled Monument Dorset No 238). A contour survey and geophysical survey were carried out. The author indicates that the results of the geophysical survey, when available, will be tested by excavation of test pits. This report summarises the scope of work carried out by the Trust for Wessex Archaeology along parts Option 3 routing of the proposed pipeline. The purpose of the present exercise is to assess the likely impact of pipeline construction in areas where the route passes adjacent to or impinges on Scheduled Ancient Monuments, with a view to developing a strategy for archaeological recording to accompany an application for Scheduled Monument Consent, and to prepare proposals for working practices during construction. The full draft proposals for archaeological response in advance of and during construction are contained with the Archaeological Project Design previously submitted, and which will be modified in the light of preliminary survey results. These proposals not only provide for archaeological work in connection with the Scheduled Ancient Monument, but also for a scheme of investigations, assessment and recording of significant archaeological deposits which may be encountered elsewhere on the route. Final results from the surveys undertaken are still awaited, and any results and consequent interpretations are provisional. Confirmation from test pit excavation will be sought as soon as relevant permissions have been obtained. Within the area of ST 9030 8718, aerial photographs and contour survey demonstrate that the plotting of the line of the Worgret Dyke earthwork shown on the enclosed plan is not accurate, and that the true course of the monument lies to the south of the drawn alignment. The proposed route of the pipeline does not impinge closer than c. 10m to the earthwork. Magnetometer survey in both areas has not produced strong results, suggesting that either the ditches associated with the earthworks are very shallow, or that they backfield with deposits which are largely archaeological sterile. It is likely; however, that the results obtained will be sufficient to accurately locate the earthworks on the ground.