Between 2021 and 2022 York Archaeology were commissioned by the Environment Agency to monitor construction of the Clifton Ings Flood Alleviation Scheme.

A rubbish dump associated with Clifton Hospital was discovered. This included items which reflect aspects of the lives of patients and staff such as toothbrushes, game pieces and stamped crockery.

Clifton Hospital was built in 1847 as the North Riding Lunatic Asylum. In 1920 it changed its name to North Riding Mental Hospital as shown on the stamped crockery images. It was demolished in 1994.