An Archaeological Desk Based Assessment of the Showfields Site, North of Whittlesey

Abstract

This Desk Based Assessment was commissioned by K M Planning on behalf of their client Showfields Limited. It relates to an area of 22 hectares to the immediate north of Whittlesey village. The purpose of this report is to collate and summarise the known and potential archaeology of the Proposed Development Area (PDA) and surrounding study area, defined by figure 3. The development area has potential for archaeology, notably from the Prehistoric and Roman periods. The relationship between the fen edge and settlement throughout the prehistoric period is well established, with recently excavated sites at the western end of Whittlesey Island. The Roman presence on the island is also well documented and the proximity of known sites suggests the possibility of further activity within the PDA. The cropmark evidence at the far eastern end of the site goes some way to support this theory. Medieval and Post Medieval quarrying, particularly towards the western end of the site, will effect preservation within those areas. However, the likely alluvial cover over the lower ground may have sealed and protected earlier features from later agricultural practices.