“By examining geological and survey maps,
and cross-referencing with what we already
know about the heritage of the surrounding
area, archaeologists can use their professional
judgement to make some educated guesses,”
says Miller. “We also look at the topographic
position of a site. Is it somewhere that people
might have wanted to live in the past, close
to a river, for example? even place names can
tell you a lot about what was there before.”
The results can be exceptional, even if the
site doesn’t hint at what might lie underneath.
For example, when upgrading work was
required on a stretch of the a127 in Southend
in 2003, early assessments identified the area
as a potential site of anglo-Saxon remains.
atkins ran a programme of fieldwork that
resulted in the most exciting anglo-Saxon find
since the discovery of Sutton hoo in Suffolk
70 years ago. a wood-lined tomb housed the
coffin of an east Saxon king, known as the
Prince of Prittlewell, along with a collection
of artefacts, from gold buckles to cauldrons,
14 all in their original positions.
The rare objects in Southend provided
archaeologists with fascinating insight into
the region’s social history but, once the extensive excavations uncovered the unique this culture and heritage can be appreciated by olympic Park in the lea Valley, the potential
work is completed, the town will also boast remains of a prehistoric village. atkins everyone, but can inject character that helps to long-term benefits of the site’s historical signifi-
a unique and valuable visitor attraction. provided the Welsh assembly government frame a development in a positive light. cance were at the heart of the original remit.
The story that emerges can often help to with advice and management, culminating “It can soften the message that the devel-
shape and enhance a development. in an interpretation scheme for the public. oper is trying to get across to the public and Beyond 2012
During site preparation works for a new The use of educational boards and information demonstrate that they are putting something The archaeological discoveries of the
regional business park in Ty Mawr, Wales, dissemination such as this not only ensure that back into the community,” says Miller. at the london 2012 site have been an integral
1135 ad Late 12th century 17th/18th century 1892 ad
Cistercian Abbey exploits
Knights Templar
UK’s first calico printer and
UK’s first petrol factory
Lea water power porcelain factory is established
water mill (Temple Mills)
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