York Historic Environment Record

The updated model has identified several important features, namely two large possible kettle holes and in situ alluvial sedimentation related to Holgate Beck. The kettle hole features have acted as sediment traps and are likely to contain prehistoric and historic period deposits. In Kettle Hole 1 at least two organic units were recorded, demonstrating changes in depositional conditions over time. These organic deposits will not only preserve important palaeoenvironmental remains but may also preserve wooden archaeological structures and artefacts. These two areas have been identified as targets for further archaeological investigation, especially if impacted directly, or indirectly by the proposed redevelopment. The alluvial sequence associated with Holgate Beck is shown to be sand-dominated with some clay laminations. Despite the lack of organics in the available borehole data, these sediments still have the potential to preserve microfossil remains and are suitable for OSL dating. The recovery of a cache of Neolithic flint tools from this location in the 19th century highlights the importance of understanding the landscape evolution of this area. The updated modelling has enhanced the understanding of the placement of this material and has demonstrated the potential of the site to still preserve archaeological remains despite the extensive truncation caused by the development of the railway.