Archaeological Recording at Franklin Gardens, Cottenham, Cambridgeshire

Abstract

Machine-excavated foundation trenches were investigated as part of a planning requirement ahead of the construction of two small dwellings in Franklin Gardens, Cottenham, by the Papworth Trust. The site (TL 4501/6756) is located on bright orange sand, probably part of the Lower Greensand belt. It lies approximately 50m west of the northwest-southeast aligned High Street among a relatively new housing estate. Previous archaeological work undertaken in Cottenham has given evidence of the Saxon and early Medieval village between 100-200m north of Franklin Gardens and it was anticipated that similar remains may also be encountered in this location. Site visits were made on 10th and 11th May and the foundation trenches duly recorded. No archaeology relating to the early village layout was seen in the foundation trenches of the west building. It appears that this plot has never formed an integral part of the domestic settlement of the village, but has always been part of the field system that would have served it. While no evidence of Medieval - Post-Medieval ridge and furrow cultivation remains were seen, those of much later date were apparent. These remains were aligned perpendicular to the alignment of the High Street, respecting the enclosure boundaries emplaced in the 18th- 20th centuries. Such respect of alignment corroborates the generally late character of the 'furrow' fills and serves to show their low archaeological status.