The Grand Arcade, Cambridge: Desktop Assessment

Abstract

This archaeological study updates that carried out in 1997 ahead of the initial planning application for the Grand Arcade Development in Cambridge. In the intervening period four phases of field evaluation and monitoring have been carried out which directly relate to the archaeological survival model developed in the earlier study. There have also been changes to the proposed development that necessitate a new planning application. The structure of the report has been modified for clarification and a clearer definition of the broader archaeological context of the development. The proposal is for redevelopment in the Robert Sayles/Lion Yard area of Cambridge (roughly centred at TL451 583). The main focus is the block of land of which the proposed scheme boundary encloses about 70%. This is referred to throughout the study as the Lion Yard Block and is bounded to the north by Petty Cury, to the west by Corn Exchange Street, to the south by Downing Street and to the east by St. Andrew's Street. The reorientated St. Tibb's Row splits the southern half of the block in two.