York Historic Environment Record

This study has identified no overriding cultural heritage constraints which are likely to prohibit development. This assessment has established that there is an archaeological interest within the Site. This is defined as the potential for the presence of buried archaeological remains, in particular relating to modern and post-medieval agricultural and industrial activity. It is speculated that preservation of potential remains will be higher in areas of hard standing, in the eastern and northern extern of the Site, previously used as car parking for the former Del Monte factory. The structures associated with the former factory may have Del Monte Site, Skelton, York directly impacted upon potential features. However, due to a lack of previous archaeological investigation, the potential for and significance of any such archaeological remains and potential for adverse impact upon them, could not be accurately assessed on the basis of the available evidence. 7.1.4 The presence of Prehistoric or Romano-British activity within the area should be duly noted, and whilst preservation of these remains is unknown, their potential presence should be considered during mitigation. As a result, it is considered that the proposed development will have little or no significant impact upon the landscape surrounding Skelton. Archaeological evaluation measures outlined in a brief prepared for the Site by the City of York Development Planning Officer were as follows: geophysical survey; field-walking; an archaeologically supervised metal detecting survey; and excavation of evaluation trenches examining a 5% sample of the site. Recommendations It is not felt in this instance that fieldwalking, metal detecting survey or geophysical survey is appropriate due to the ground cover present on Site, with modern dumping and structural demolition debris preventing archaeologically beneficial or significant results. The presence, location and significance of any buried heritage assets within the Site cannot currently be confirmed on the basis of the available information. As such it is likely that additional archaeological investigations may be required. A programme of trial trenching is likely to be recommended by the City of York Development Planning Officer, which could be agreed through consultation with the statutory authorities as a condition of planning approval.