1 eastsussex.gov.uk

Bexhill to Hastings Link Road Archaeological investigation of the main site compound

Archaeology 5

One of the first pieces of development activity to involve the archaeologists was the construction of a compound

at the eastern end of the route in the field south of Upper Wilting Farm to be used by contractors building the

road.

To make an area of hard standing for temporary offices and parking

an area of about 1 hectare was stripped of topsoil. This was done

under the supervision of archaeologists who then inspected the area.

The evaluation of this field had indicated that unlike the area to the north of the

current farmstead, this field was of low archaeological potential and this proved to be

the case with just a few small ancient ditches (probably field boundaries) and a number

of more modern features being revealed.

One very nice find was made, surviving just below the level of

modern ploughing a small pot (broken but largely complete) was

found. This has been dated to the early to mid Saxon period and

helps to confirm the long history of occupation on the high

ground around Upper Wilting Farm.

The topsoil is stripped from the compound area. An archaeologist ensures the machine stops at the correct level for the archaeological inspection to be undertaken.

An archaeologist investigates a ‘feature’. Pieces of modern brick included in the soil which fills it tell him that this one is not of ancient origin.

An Early -Mid Saxon pot found at the compound site. Note the size, about the same as a tennis bal l!