Neolithic settlement uncovered at Borras Quarry

Archaeologists have uncovered the remains of a Neolithic settlement at Tarmac's Borras quarry at Wrexham.

The discovery was made after archaeologists noticed dark areas resembling cooking pits appearing whilst topsoil and subsoil was being removed in preparation for sand and gravel extraction.

Tarmac has now suspended soil removal in the area of the finds whilst archaeologists from Clwyd-Powys Archaeological Trust (CPAT) excavate the remains, which are thought to be around 4,000 years old. The findings will be fully recorded and sent for radiocarbon dating and environmental assessment. The results will be then be studied at CPAT headquarters in Welshpool.

Tarmac's estates and geology manager, Richard Hulse said: "It appears that these are cooking pits typically used to heat water in order to prepare food. As a result we have ceased topsoil removal in the immediate vicinity in order to retrieve any further artefacts which may be present."

Project Manager, Nigel Jones of CPAT said: "This is an important discovery as we currently have very little evidence of Neolithic settlement in this part of Wales. A team of archaeologists will start excavating the site on 16 June and although at present the full extent of the remains is not known, the excavation is likely to continue for several weeks. We are hoping to find more evidence of occupation, possibly including the remains of timber houses".

 

For further information please Contact PR.

 

1 July 2008