York Historic Environment Record

An archaeological evaluation comprising the excavation of two trenches was carried out in advance of a proposed development. In both trenches it was discovered that the upper levels of the deposits had been subject to much disturbance which was modern in date. Trench one, however, did reveal at a lower depth a rough cobbled surface into which a number of pits were cut and were found to be Medieval in date. A significant feature within this trench was that of a clay lined cut with a well constructed brick and stone base which also yielded a complete grindstone. Associated with this feature was a considerable amount of lime mortar and was interpretated as a mortar mixing pit. Trench two deposits appeared to be uniform and were high in humic content. This was thought to be due to deliberate dumping to level the ground surface and was interpreted as being evidence for cultivation associated with activity commonly seen as been of a back yard nature. Apart from this no other significant archaeological activity was observed. NMR Description Two trenches excavated in advance of proposed development recorded medieval and later cut features, including a medieval mortar-mixing pit and cobbled surface.