SDO15403 - Land at Park Walk, Shaftesbury, Dorset. An Archaeological Evaluation.

‘Context One Archaeological Services Ltd (COAS) carried out an Archaeological Field Evaluation through trial trenching in support of a planning application for the construction of a new residential dwelling on land at Park Walk, Shaftesbury, Dorset. The project was commissioned by Mr David Sharp (Architect, bta Architects) on behalf of his client, Mr and Mrs T Morgan. The evaluation was advised following submission of a preapplication on the basis that while there are no records of any previous archaeological activity on the Site, a range of multi-period Heritage Assets are recorded in the vicinity, many relating to the Scheduled Monument of Shaftesbury Abbey. The Site backs on to Shaftesbury Abbey and there was a recorded instance of human remains recovered during works on an adjacent property. Historic map regression assessment shows the presence of some small buildings and an old boundary, possibly a wall, located within the footprint of the new dwelling. Despite this potential, no archaeological features or deposits were found on Site through evaluation trenching. Notably, no human remains were found and neither was there any evidence associating the Site with the medieval cemetery. Brief consideration is given to the impact that the proposed development may have on the setting of the Scheduled Monument of Shaftesbury Abbey, which is close to the Site. It is suggested that the proposed development will have a neutral impact on the evidential, historic and communal values of the monument. Any impact upon aesthetic value cannot be assessed until a design proposal has evolved.’