York Historic Environment Record

A preliminary archaeological evaluation was undertaken on the site of proposed building works. In all a series of 6 small test pits were dug to a maximum depth of 1 metre below ground level. This work was carried out as it lies within the area of a known Roman burial site. The City Archaeologist was keen to know whether or not this development would encroach upon human burials. The excavations proved that this was not the case and in the process revealed occupational evidence on this site stretching from the Roman period through to Post-Medieval times. During the excavations no evidence for human burial was uncovered as no bone was recovered, which in the mind of the excavator cast doubt on the assumption that this site formed part of the Roman cemetery. Although evidence for multi phase occupation was recovered, in the form of finds, later activity on the site which was thought to be horticultural in nature, destroyed any significant stratigraphy. Therefore it was the conclusion of the excavator that it was unlikely for this site to produce anything other than unstratified archaeological remains.