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Land at Southbrook Farm, Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

By GK Heritage Consultants Ltd March 2018

Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

GK Heritage Consultants Ltd: Report 2018/GK10 March 2018

Compiled By: Guy Kendall MCIfA

GK Heritage Consultants Ltd 3rd Floor, Old Stock Exchange, St Nicholas Street, Bristol, BS1 1TG

Checked By: Guy Kendall

Tel: 0117 336 1136

gkheritage.co.uk [email protected]

©GK Heritage Consultants Ltd

Page | i Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm, Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

GK Heritage Consultants Ltd Report 2018/GK10

March 2018

© GK Heritage Consultants Ltd 2018 3rd Floor, Old Stock Exchange, St Nicholas Street, Bristol, BS1 1TG www.gkheritage.co.uk

Prepared on behalf of: Energion Date of compilation: March 2018 Compiled by: G Kendall MCIfA Local Authority: Monmouthshire County Council

Site central NGR: ST504877 (350475, 187763)

Page | ii Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

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Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION ...... 6 1.1 Project and Planning Background ...... 6 1.2 Site description ...... 6 1.3 Geology ...... 6 2 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES ...... 6

3 METHOD STATEMENT ...... 7

4 IMPACT ASSESSMENT CRITERIA ...... 8 4.1 Study Area ...... 10 4.2 Information Sources...... 10 4.3 Setting assessment ...... 11 5 PLANNING & LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK ...... 11

6 BASELINE DATA ...... 15 6.1 Archaeological and Historical Background ...... 15 6.2 Historic Landscape Character ...... 22 6.3 Designated Assets ...... 23 6.3.1 Historic Buildings ...... 23 6.3.2 Historic Landscape ...... 24 6.4 Non-Designated Assets ...... 24 6.4.1 Archaeological Remains ...... 24 7 ASSESSMENT OF THE SIGNIFICANCE OF AFFECTED HERITAGE ASSETS ...... 25

8 ASSESSMENT OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS...... 25 8.1 The Historic Landscape ...... 25 8.2 The Setting of Designated Heritage Assets ...... 25 9 RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 26

10 STATEMENTS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ...... 26 10.1 Publicity, Confidentiality and Copyright ...... 26 10.2 Statement of Indemnity ...... 26 10.3 Acknowledgements ...... 26 11 REFERENCES ...... 27 11.1 Primary Sources ...... 27 11.2 Secondary Sources ...... 27

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Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix 1: Location Plan and Development Proposal ...... 30 Appendix 2: GGAT Historic environment record ...... 32 Appendix 3: Historic Mapping ...... 32 Appendix 4: Consultation Cadw ...... 33 Appendix 5: Report Conditions ...... 34

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Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

1 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Project and Planning Background GK Heritage Consultants Ltd was commissioned by Renplan Consulting Ltd on behalf of their client Energion to produce a Cultural Heritage Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm, Sudbrook, Monmouthshire. The proposed development is for the installation of a 20mw Peaking Gas Development. 1.2 Site description The ‘red line boundary’ of the proposed development area (hereafter ‘PDA’) is depicted by a red polygon on Figure 1 (Appendix 1) and is c.0.63ha in area. The site is south east of Portskewett and within the area of Sudbrook within the Caldicot Level and is 280m west of the River Severn and stands at an elevation of 14mAOD. 1.3 Geology The underlying geology within the PDA is mapped by the British Geological Survey (BGS) as Mercia Mudstone Group, Sandstone formed approximately 200-251 million years ago. The PDA has no superficial deposits recorded, however, further south of the PDA, River Terrace Deposits made up of sand and gravel are present (British Geological Survey). 2 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES The principal aims of this assessment are to produce a report detailing the archaeological potential of the PDA, and to assess the potential impacts of the proposed development upon any buried and upstanding archaeological remains, historic buildings, the historic landscape and the settings of nationally designated assets. 2.2 The following objectives will contribute towards accomplishing this aim:

u To collate and assess existing information about the historic environment within the study area and to determine as fully as possible from the available evidence the nature, survival, quality, extent and importance of any archaeological remains and any upstanding buildings/structures within the PDA.

u To provide an assessment of areas of archaeological potential and survival based on the above research and assess the potential for the use of particular investigative techniques in order to aid the formulation of any necessary mitigation strategy, including further evaluation, excavation, and/or preservation of archaeological remains.

u To assess, where possible from the available sources, the extent of any ground disturbance associated with any previous intrusive development.

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Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

u To provide an initial assessment of potential impacts of the proposed development to the settings of cultural heritage assets and make recommendations for further detailed assessment should this be considered necessary. 3 METHOD STATEMENT The assessment has been carried out, with regard to the collation of baseline information, in line with the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists’ Standard and Guidance for Historic Environment Desk Based Assessment (January 2017). This desk based assessment contains a record of the known heritage resource of the area. It also assesses the potential cultural heritage resource of the site, using the following scale:

u No Potential - Clear evidence of past impacts / site sterilisation

u Low - Very unlikely to be encountered on site

u Medium - Features may occur / be encountered on site

u High - Remains almost certain to survive on site In relation to buried archaeological remains, where a site is known, or there is a medium or above potential for archaeology to survive, full impact assessment will be undertaken.

There is currently no standard adopted statutory or government guidance for assessing the importance of an archaeological feature and this is instead judged upon factors such as statutory and non-statutory designations, architectural, archaeological or historical significance, and the contribution to local research agendas. Considering these criteria each identified feature can be assigned to a level of importance in accordance with a five-point scale (Table 1, below).

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Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

Table 1: Assessing the Importance of a Cultural Heritage Site SCALE OF SITE IMPORTANCE

The highest status of site, e.g. Scheduled Monuments (or undesignated assets of schedulable quality and importance). Grade I and Grade II* Listed Buildings. Other listed buildings that can be shown to have exceptional qualities in their fabric or historical NATIONAL associations not adequately reflected in the listing grade. Conservation Areas containing very important buildings. Undesignated structures of clear national importance. Extremely well preserved historic landscape, whether inscribed or not, with exceptional coherence, time depth, or other critical factor(s).

Grade II Listed Buildings or other designated or undesignated archaeological sites (in addition to those listed above), or assets of a reasonably defined extent and significance, REGIONAL or reasonable evidence of occupation / settlement, ritual, industrial activity etc. Examples may include areas containing buildings that contribute significantly to its historic character, burial sites, deserted medieval villages, Roman roads and dense scatter of finds. Evidence of human activity more limited in historic value than the examples above, or compromised by poor preservation and/or survival of context associations, though which still have the potential to contribute to local research objectives. Examples include sites LOCAL such as ‘locally designated’ buildings or undesignated structures / buildings of limited historic merit, out-of-situ archaeological findspots / ephemeral archaeological evidence and historic field systems and boundaries etc. Assets with very little or no surviving archaeological interest. Examples include destroyed antiquities, structures of almost no architectural / historic merit, buildings of an intrusive NEGLIGIBLE character or relatively modern / common landscape features such as quarries, drains and ponds etc.

Insufficient information exists to assess the importance of a feature (e.g. unidentified UNKNOWN features on aerial photographs).

The importance of already identified cultural heritage resources is determined by reference to existing designations. Where classification of a receptor’s value covered a range of the above possibilities or for previously unidentified features where no designation has been assigned, the value of the receptor was based on professional knowledge and judgement.

For some types of finds or remains there is no consistent value and the importance may vary, for example Grade II Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas. For this reason, adjustments are occasionally made, where appropriate, based on professional judgement. 4 IMPACT ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

The magnitude of impact upon the archaeological and heritage resource, which can be considered in terms of direct and indirect impacts, is determined by identifying the level of effect from the proposed development upon the baseline conditions of the site

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Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

and the cultural heritage resource identified. The criteria for assessing the magnitude of impact are set out in Table 2 (below).

In certain cases it is not possible to confirm the magnitude of impact upon a cultural heritage resource, especially where anticipated buried deposits exist. Where possible a professional judgement as to the scale of such impacts is applied to enable the likely ‘Significance of Effects’ to be established; however, a magnitude level of ‘uncertain’ is included for situations where it is simply not appropriate to make such a judgement at this stage of works.

Table 2: Criteria for Determining Magnitude of Impact

IMPACT DEFINITION LEVEL Changes to most or all of the key archaeological or key heritage baseline elements, or comprehensive changes to the setting of such key features that lead to total or almost HIGH complete alteration of a features physical structure, dramatic visual alteration to the setting of a heritage asset, or almost comprehensive variation to aspects such as noise, access, or visual amenity of the historic landscape.

Changes to many key archaeological materials/historic elements, or their setting, such that the baseline resource is clearly modified. This includes considerable visual change to many MEDIUM key aspects of the historic landscape, noticeable differences in noise or sound quality, and considerable changes to use or access changes to key historic landscape elements

Detectable impacts which alter the baseline condition of an archaeological or heritage receptor to a slight degree – e.g. a small proportion of the surviving heritage resource is LOW altered; slight alterations to the setting or structure, or limited changes to aspects such as noise levels, use or access that results in limited changes to historic landscape character.

Barely distinguishable change from baseline conditions, where there would be very little appreciable effect on a known site, possibly because of distance from the development, NEGLIGIBLE method of construction or landscape or ecological planting, that are thought to have no long-term effect on the historic value of a resource.

Extent / nature of the resource is unknown and the magnitude of change cannot be UNCERTAIN ascertained.

The overall Significance of Effects from the proposed development upon the Cultural Heritage Resource is determined by correlating the magnitude of Impact against value of the Cultural Heritage resource. Table 3 highlights the criteria for assessing the overall Significance of Effects. Where effects are moderate or above these are classified as significant.

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Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

4.1 Study Area The study area adopted for this assessment comprises a 1km off-set from the PDA for all non-designated archaeological deposits and 2km for all designated heritage assets. The data is depicted on Figures 3 and 4 (Appendix 2). 4.2 Information Sources

This assessment includes relevant information contained in various statutory requirements, national, regional and local planning policies and professional good practice guidance, including:

• Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act, 1979; • Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act, 1990; • Technical Advice Note (TAN) 24: The Historic Environment (2017) and • Planning Policy Wales, 8th Edition, 2016

The GGAT Historic Environment Record is the primary source of information concerning the current state of archaeological and architectural knowledge in this area. The information contained within this database was supported by examination of data from a wide range of other sources, principally:

u Archwilio: The Historic Environment Records of the Welsh Archaeological Trusts (www.archwilio.org.uk); u Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales National Monuments Record (RCAHMW NMR); u A site-walk over was undertaken on the 26th March 2018; u Additional relevant documentary and online historic sources;

Information from these sources was used to understand:

u Information on statutory and non-statutory designated sites; u Information on heritage assets recorded on the HER; u Any information on the site contained in published and unpublished archaeological and historical sources, including any previous investigations undertaken within the study area; u A greater understanding of key cultural heritage issues of the site and surrounding area, developed through the onsite walkover, including information on areas of past truncation within the site boundary; u The impact of proposed development on the known and potential cultural heritage resource, resulting in the formulation of a mitigation strategy, where required, which appropriately targets any future works to those required to gain planning consent.

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Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

The general principles of the following staged process, outlined in Setting of Historic Assets in Wales (2017), will be used when assessing the impact of a proposed change or development within the setting of historic assets:

Stage 1: Identify the historic assets that might be affected by a proposed change or development;

Stage 2: Define and analyse the settings to understand how they contribute to the significance of the historic assets and, in particular, the ways in which the assets are understood, appreciated and experienced;

Stage 3: Evaluate the potential impact of a proposed change or development on that significance and

Stage 4: If necessary, consider options to mitigate or improve the potential impact of a proposed change or development on that significance.

4.3 Setting assessment The assessment of potential impacts to the settings of designated assets was undertaken in accordance with the Setting of Historic Assets in Wales, which recommends a 4-stage approach to the assessment of impacts to settings of heritage assets (Cadw, 2017):

u Stage 1: identify which heritage assets and their settings are affected;

u Stage 2: Define and Analyse the Setting;

u Stage 3: Evaluate the Potential Impact of Change or Development;

u Stage 4: Consider Options to Mitigate the Impact of a Proposed Change or Development and

u Stage 5: Document the Assessment. 5 PLANNING & LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK Introduction The following section highlights the key planning and legislative framework relevant to this project, including legislative framework, national planning policy and relevant sector guidance. Statutory Protection for Heritage Assets Current legislation, in the form of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, provides for the legal protection of important and well-preserved archaeological sites and monuments through their addition to a list, or 'schedule' of archaeological monuments by the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport. This

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Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

necessitates the granting of formal Scheduled Monument Consent for any work undertaken within the designated area of a Scheduled Ancient Monument. Likewise, structures are afforded legal protection in the form of their addition to ‘lists’ of buildings of special architectural or historical interest. The listing of buildings is carried out by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act, 1990. The main purpose of the legislation is to protect buildings and their surroundings from changes that would materially alter the special historic or architectural value of the building or its setting. This necessitates the granting of formal Listed Building Consent for all works undertaken to or within the designated curtilage of a Listed Building. This legislation also allows for the creation and protection of Conservation Areas by local planning authorities to protect areas and groupings of historical significance. The categories of assets with some form of legal protection have been extended in recent years, and now include Registered Parks and Gardens, and Historic Battlefields. While designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site is not a statutory designation under English planning law, such a designation is regarded as a material consideration in planning decisions, and World Heritage Sites are in practice protected from development that could affect any aspect of their significance including settings within the Site and a buffer zone around it. National Planning Policy Planning Policy Wales 8th Edition, adopted in January 2016, and Technical Advice Note (TAN) 24: The Historic Environment, adopted in May 2017, together set out the national framework for the management of the wider historic environment and guidance on how the planning system considers the historic environment during development plan preparation and decision making on planning and listed building applications. Planning Policy Wales (PPW), 8th Edition, 2016 - Chapter 6: Conserving the Historic Environment Paragraph 6.5.1 states that 'the desirability of preserving an ancient monument and its setting is a material consideration in determining a planning application, whether that monument is scheduled or unscheduled. Where nationally important archaeological remains, whether scheduled or not, and their settings are likely to be affected by proposed development, there should be a presumption in favour of their physical preservation in situ. In cases involving lesser archaeological remains, local planning authorities will need to weigh the relative importance of archaeology against other factors, including the need for the proposed development'. In relation to Listed Buildings, paragraph 6.5.9 states that 'where a development proposal affects a listed building or its setting, the primary material consideration is the statutory requirement to have special regard to the desirability of preserving the building, or its setting, or any features of special architectural or historic interest which it possesses'.

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Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

In regard to Conservation Areas, 'should any proposed development conflict with the objective of preserving or enhancing the character or appearance of a conservation area, or its setting, there will be a strong presumption against the grant of planning permission'. Paragraph 6.5.25 relates to Historic Parks & Gardens: 'local planning authorities should protect parks and gardens and their settings included in the first part of the 'Register of Landscapes, Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest in Wales'. The needs of archaeology and development can be reconciled, and potential conflict very much reduced, if developers discuss their proposals for development with the local planning authority at an early stage. Archaeological assessments commissioned by developers can help to provide information on the archaeological sensitivity of a site before submitting a planning application. If important remains are thought to exist at a development site, the planning authority should request the prospective developer to arrange for an archaeological field evaluation to be carried out before any decision on the planning application is taken. The results of any assessment and/or field evaluation should be provided as part of a planning application'. Technical Advice Note (TAN) 24: The Historic Environment The purpose of the TAN is to provide guidance on how the planning system considers the historic environment during development plan preparation and decision making on planning and Listed Building (LBC) applications. This TAN provides specific guidance on how the following aspects of the historic environment should be considered:

u World Heritage Sites

u Scheduled monuments

u Archaeological remains

u Listed buildings

u Conservation areas

u Historic parks and gardens

u Historic landscapes

u Historic assets of special local interest The following relevant aspects which are covered in detail include: The conservation of archaeological remains is a material consideration in determining a planning application. When considering development proposals that affect scheduled monuments or other nationally important archaeological remains, there should be a presumption in favour of their physical preservation in situ. In cases involving less significant archaeological remains, local planning authorities will need to weigh the relative importance of the archaeological remains and their settings against other factors, including the need for the proposed development (TAN 24, 2017).

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Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

Where development might reveal, disturb or destroy archaeological remains, including palaeoenvironmental evidence, it is important that the opportunities to record archaeological evidence are taken and that archaeological remains are not needlessly destroyed. The ability to record such evidence should not be a factor in deciding whether controlled removal should be permitted. When considering planning applications that affect known or potential archaeological remains, the local planning authority should consult with their archaeological advisor, about the impact, including the potential scale and harm, of the development on archaeological remains, and/or the adequacy of the mitigation of what has been proposed. These two factors are material considerations in determining the planning application. Where a planning application directly affects a scheduled monument and its setting then the local planning authority is required to consult the Welsh Ministers through Cadw. The case for the preservation of archaeological remains that are not considered to meet the criteria for national importance, must be assessed on the individual merits of each case. The local planning authority must take into account relevant policies and material considerations and will need to weigh the significance of the remains against the benefits of and need for the proposed development. Conservation Principles for the Sustainable Management of the Historic Environment in Wales 2011 This document provides the basis upon which Cadw discharges certain statutory duties on behalf of the Welsh Ministers. Conservation Principles should be used by others (including owners, developers and other public bodies) to assess the potential impacts of a development proposal on the significance of any historic asset/assets and to assist in decision making where the historic environment is affected by the planning process. There are six principles. 1. Historic assets will be managed to sustain their values. 2. Understanding the significance of historic assets is vital. 3. The historic environment is a shared resource. 4. Everyone will be able to participate in sustaining the historic environment. 5 Decisions about change must be reasonable, transparent and consistent. 6. Documenting and learning from decisions is essential. Monmouthshire County Council Adopted Local Development Plan (LDP) 2014 The LDP sets out the Council’s vision and objectives for the development and use of land in Monmouthshire, together with the policies and proposals to implement them over a 10-year period to 2021. The following policies are relevant to this scheme:

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Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

Policy S17 – Place Making and Design Development shall contribute to creating high quality, attractive and sustainable places. All development proposals must include and promote high quality, sustainable inclusive design which respects local distinctiveness, respects the character of the site and its surrounding in order to protect and enhance the natural, historic and built environments and to create attractive, safe and accessible places. In relation to Listed Buildings, Conservation Area, Scheduled Ancient Monuments & Archaeological Remains, the LDP refers to Chapter 6 of the PPW, Circular 61/96 Planning and the Historic Environment: Historic Buildings and Conservation Areas & Circular 60/96 Planning and the Historic Environment: Archaeology, the latter two of which have been superseded by the TAN. 6 BASELINE DATA The following is referenced from a comprehensive 2015 desk-based assessment produced by Wessex Archaeology for a solar farm directly to the south of the PDA. The following baseline study has been bought up to date with current GGATHER data accessed on the 27th March 2018. 6.1 Archaeological and Historical Background The Prehistoric Period / Romano-British Period Prehistoric information is known from within the Study Area. A Palaeolithic flint axe is recorded within the River Severn 730m to the south of the PDA (PRN044413g). A Scheduled Monument dating to the Neolithic period is known 450m to the north west of the PDA at MM018. This is a chambered tomb with a long barrow aligned north east-south west. It was excavated in 1888 and had two connecting chambers. The western tomb was recorded as being horse shoe shaped and contained fragments of human bone including part of a human skull. In the eastern chamber human finger bones and teeth were recovered as well as bones of an Ox and two smooth round stones. Only three stones remain of the eastern chamber (MM018).

Between two and ten lithic implements are recorded on the GGAT lithic survey being of the same material and tool type. These finds are recorded on the HER 500m to the north west of the PDA assigned a general prehistoric date (PRN04269g). A barbed and tanged Bronze Age arrowhead is recorded 590m to the west of the PDA (PRN01146g). The Portable Antiquities Scheme records four scrapers, one flake and a retouched blade located within the Study Area located 520m and 790m to the north west of the PDA (2009.136.5, and 2009.136.13-2009.136.17).

A Scheduled Monument located to the south of the PDA has its origins in the Iron Age period. The monument began as an Iron Age Hillfort roughly triangular in shape, bounded by the sea cliff to the south and triple banks and ditches on the north east and north western sides. The banks and ditches have since been eroded and

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Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

encroached upon by development. The hillfort was trenched in 1934. A plan by Spencer-Williams in 1936 shows a level interior with what was interpreted as prehistoric hut floors and a possible barrow. Further investigation in 2000 suggests that the locations of the prehistoric huts may not be accurate and may actually be an occupation scatter rather than hut floors (MM048).

Evidence of Iron Age occupation was discovered during a trial trench evaluation at Portskewett School 850m to the west of the PDA boundary. Evidence of Romano- British and medieval occupation were also discovered during the evaluation and further Romano- British pottery was recorded during the Watching Brief (E002490/E002301). Romano-British Romano-British remains are recorded at Sudbrook Camp which was established in the Iron Age. The continuation of activity at this place is likely to be due to the camps strategic position as a promontory fort (Aldhouse-Green & Howell 2004). It was thought to have been in use until at least the 1st to mid 2nd century, perhaps in use as a Roman trading post (MM048).

A Roman road traverses the Study Area on a north west south east alignment (PRN07761g). This road is thought to have been connected to the main Newnham to Caerleon Road and may have perhaps led to a port at Sudbrook or Black Rock. The postulated route of another section of Roman road is recorded 150m to the east of the PDA at the coast at Black Rock. This is thought to have been the road from the Severn Crossing to Caerwent (PRN07761g). A large number of coins (PRN01148g) spanning 300 years have been found in this area perhaps thrown into the river as an offering to the gods for a safe ferry journey (Aldhouse-Green & Howell 2004).

A number of finds have been recorded across the Study Area dating to the Romano- British period. Roman coins and jewellery are recorded at PRN01148g, 138m to the east of the PDA. Roman coins are also recorded at PRN01153g, 760m to the east of the PDA, PRN06167g 490m to the west of the PDA and PRN07601g, 560m to the east of the PDA. Also found at this location were a bronze brooch PRN07614g, a bronze eagle figurine with coins and jewellery on the foreshore PRN05800g, and a bronze harness ring and mount (PRN07620). Sherds of Roman pottery are recorded at WA10 920m to the south west of the PDA and 740m to the north of the PDA (PRN06168g). Evidence of Romano-British quarrying has been found within the Study Area at PRN00504g, 850m to the west of the PDA.

An excavation undertaken by Cotswold Archaeology followed an Evaluation undertaken by GGAT in 1995. These investigations recorded remains of the Romano- British period and medieval period 620m to the west of the PDA (E003500/E001038). The corner of a large enclosure ditch measuring 4m in width and 1.5m in depth was

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Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

excavated. This contained pottery dating from 2nd-4th centuries, a fragment of Roman glass, and a small quantity of residual flint. A fragment of a copper alloy bracelet was also recovered.

Another ditch at the western part of the site contained a large amount of animal bone and pottery dated to the 2nd-4th centuries. Another ditch of Romano-British date was recorded in the north western corner of the site and another two short lengths of ditch were recorded in the south western part of the site. These two features contained a small number of pottery sherds dated to the Romano-British period or later. An earth and rubble bank was recorded at the site on the inside corner of the large enclosure ditch, thought to have been constructed in the 4th century or later, as the ground surface that it was constructed upon contained pottery dating to the 3rd- 4th centuries. Another smaller bank or bulk deposit was situated to the east of this with remnants of stone revetting a considerable amount of pottery and animal bone was found within this material. A flexed inhumation burial was found within the south eastern corner of the site, the burial lay within a colluvial deposit that was dated to the 3rd-4th centuries; however, radio-carbon dating dated the burial to the 7th-8th centuries. Large pits were also recorded at the Site dating to between 2nd-4th centuries. These were deliberately backfilled with domestic waste and burnt material (E003500/E001038; Cotswold Archaeology 2012).

The GGATHER records further remains dating to the Romano-British period to the immediate north of the Cotswold Archaeology investigation. This revealed the remains of Romano-British finds including pottery and tile and a possible Romano- British building (E001038). The Portable Antiquities Scheme records a large number of Romano-British finds within the Study Area mainly focused towards the north west of the Site, however, some are located at Black Rock and five coins are located 195m to the west of the Site. The remainder of the finds comprise seven brooches, one samian pottery sherd, a cosmetic implement and 70 coins made of copper alloy and silver. The Medieval Period Wales was a geographically fragmented country in the early medieval period. Harold Godwinson (later King Harold II) owned land in Wales and was second only to the King in terms of wealth and status. Harold’s House is a Scheduled Monument thought to be the Site of Harold’s Hunting Lodge. The Site comprises of a series of earthworks which were scheduled in 1928 (MM029). Time Team and Wessex Archaeology investigated the Site in 2009 to establish the nature of the earthworks and whether any of Harold’s hunting lodge was surviving. Portskewett is mentioned in a number of early medieval documents often referred to as a port and there is documentary evidence for the existence of pre-norman llys of the Kings of Gwent and it has been suggested that Portskewett was the Site of a Welsh Royal Court. The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle of 1065 records that Harold Godwinson started to build a hunting lodge at Portskewett following the conquest of southern Gwent in 1063, however it is recorded as being destroyed in 1065.

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Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

The scheduled earthworks were interpreted through investigation, to be the remains of a medieval manor house associated with the Deneband family who were recorded at the Manor of Portskewett in 1270. The investigations comprised an earthwork survey, geoarchaeological survey, and trial trench evaluation. The works did not find any evidence of the Royal Welsh Court or the remains of Harold’s Hunting Lodge. Evidence for the manor was recorded, which was shown to have been in decline in the later medieval period and eventually demolished in the 15th century. It is possible that levelling and landscaping prior to the construction of the manor may have removed any predating evidence. Two manor buildings were identified one interpreted for human habitation and the other for animals. It was suggested that the northern building may have had a large tower as ‘Tower Hay’ is recorded on a late 18th century map. The investigations also identified the location of the tidal inlet in this area from the Severn River to the Manor. This would have provided a degree of defence for the Manor on its elevated position (Wessex Archaeology 2009). Similarities were drawn between the stone masonry for the manor and that used on St Mary’s Church to the immediate east of the Scheduled Monument. Medieval Manors often had a private church associated with them which later formed the church for the parish. The church is still in existence which has its origins in the Norman period with later additions in the 14th century and later (PRN00506g and PRN08244g). A Scheduled Monument is associated with the Church (MM0315). St Mary’s Churchyard Cross is the remains of a Cross which stands upon four stone steps 4.1m sq. and have a height of 1.4m (MM0315). Another medieval Manor House and a deserted medieval settlement are recorded on the GGATHER at Sudbrook Camp to the south of the Site (PRN01149g and PRN03311g). The ruins of the Holy Trinity church are also situated at the far eastern side of the earthworks with only the front bell tower gables and a few ruined sections of wall remaining. The earliest remains are thought to date to the 12th century with some 13th and 14th additions, however much of the remains are thought to date to the 17th century. The church was known to have been abandoned during the 1790s probably due to encroaching erosion. Due to its seemingly remote position it has been suggested that it was built as a private chapel for John Southbrook who was mentioned in a survey in 1276 (Barber 1987) however as the HER records a deserted medieval village within the vicinity of the ruins, it could also relate to this deserted settlement, as the parish church. Excavation undertaken by Cotswold Archaeology at Sudbrook Road (E003500/E001038); discussed above) also recorded medieval evidence at this site. A large north west/ south east ditch bisected the site measuring 3.1m in width and 0.85m in depth dating to the 12th- 13th centuries. This was sealed by the remains of an earth and rubble bank 0.55m thick, quantities of Roman and medieval pottery were recovered from the bank. At a right angle to the large north west/south east ditch was

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Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

a smaller ditch containing 12th century pottery, animal bone and a medieval padlock key. Four curvilinear ditches extended south of this ditch dated to the 12th to 13th centuries. Three other small ditches or gullies were also on a north south and east west alignment across the site. A large ditch ran along the southern boundary of the site. In the western part of the site structural remains were uncovered extending beyond the limit of excavation. The building measured 8m in length and 4.5m in width. A central passage was identified with a flagged stone floor which led to a central cell. The building was spot dated to 13th-14th centuries (E003500/E001038; Cotswold Archaeology 2012). An archaeological evaluation at Manor Way did not reveal any significant archaeology however medieval and post-medieval pottery was recovered from the site (E003106). Similarly medieval and post-medieval pottery was recovered from an evaluation at The Rectory (PRN04769g). A medieval mill is known from documentary records from 1280 and the field is referred to as Mill Field, however it is known to have been in ruins by 1766 (PRN04774g). A number of maritime finds have been recorded off of the coast to the south west of the Site. These include fish traps, and woven baskets used for catching eels dating to the medieval period (PRN05792g, PRN05795g, PRN05796g, and PRN05797g). Portable Antiquities Data from within the Study Area records a brooch, a buckle and a fitting 195m to the north east of the PDA all dating to the medieval period (2010.25.2-2010.25.4). In addition to this a number of finds are recorded between 500m and 800m to the north west of the PDA, these include 10 coins and a buckle. The Post-Medieval Period and Historic Map Discussion During the post-medieval period Sudbrook was a small Hamlet on the outskirts of Portskewett. A medieval or post-medieval pound is recorded within the Study Area 670m to the west of the PDA (PRN00511g). A pound was a small area of ground enclosed by a wall or fence to keep either straying or illegally grazing animals in or legal grazing at certain times of the year, from areas of common grazing. A post- medieval ferry and pier have been recorded 315m to the east of the PDA (PRN01152g/PRN03683g). An archaeological evaluation recovered two sherds of medieval pottery and a small number of sherds dating to the 17th/18th centuries. No pre-dating remains were recorded at this PDA (E003901/E002183).

A mill is known to have existed south east of the PDA, which is thought to have been a watermill for the production of grain (PRN04769g). An investigation at Portskewett Nursery produced a cobbled area of 18th/19th century date (PRN07629g). A post medieval stone drain relating to farm buildings was discovered during a watching brief 860m to the north west of the PDA (E001339). Finds of 19th century date were recovered from an evaluation 160m to the south of the PDA at Sudbrook Road (E000947).

19

Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

Portskewett village Green is shown on a map from 1777 (Aram Map) covering the area to the north western boundary of the PDA (PRN06208g). Also shown on this map are a group of buildings at Southbrook Farm (PRN06207g). A large post-medieval basket work structure is known in the River Severn 840m to the south of the PDA, likely to have been used as a fish trap (PRN05798g).

A map of Estates belonging to Morgan Lewis from 1765 includes the map surveyed by Aram in 1777. This shows the PDA as being on of a series of divided sqaure rectangular fields. However, the northern part of the PDA lies beyond his estate and is labelled ‘Part of the Passage Farm’. This map also notes a former field boundary on the northern edge of the PDA.

Post-medieval finds recorded on the Portable Antiquities Scheme are mainly concentrated towards the north west of the PDA. A copper alloy belt mount is located 1km to the north of the PDA (2007.127.3). The remainder of the finds comprise 12 coins, a jetton, three tokens and a gun flint.

19th century remains have been identified from historic maps of the area and recorded on the GGATHER. Three small buildings were identified south of the churchyard (PRN06204g), three cottages are shown at The Close Portskewett (PRN06205) and a cottage is shown at Main Road Portskewett (PRN06206g) all shown on the 1839 Tithe map.

Similarly, timber footings for a pier are known from a map dated to 1863 (PRN05586g). The Shipyard at Sudbrook was originally built as workshops for the construction of the River Severn Tunnel and was converted into a shipyard in 1886 and closed in 1922 (PRN8935g). A pill (or water inlet) was recorded on the 1st edition Ordnance Survey map as lower pill located 620m to the north east of the PDA, this waslater labelled Passage Wharf Pill on the 2nd edition map (PRN08883g).

The tithe map of 1839 shows the immediate area to be divided into larger parcels of land than that shown on the earlier 1777 map. This field amalgamation was probably due to changing techniques in how the land was managed. The tithe apportionment from 1841 records that landowner as Charles Lewis, possibly a descendant of Morgan Lewis owner in 1777. Many of the field names used on the 1777 map are also recorded within the tithe apportionment and are recorded as arable land. The Ordnance Survey (OS) map of 1881-87 shows the PDA divided into fewer parcels of land. A tramway and the Severn Tunnel are indicated to the south of the PDA and Hillhouse and Southbrook Farm are the nearest settlement to the PDA at this time. As the tunnel was newly completed in late 1870s the settlement at Sudbrook grew rapidly after this time. Work on the tunnel was temporarily halted in 1879 when the tunnel started to flood from a fresh water

20

Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

spring. To combat this a large pumping station was built which is now a Listed Building located 250m to the south of the PDA (24002; Grade II). The Modern Period OS mapping dating to 1901 does not show any changes to the land division within the PDA and immediate area from the previous but does show the rapid expansion of Sudbrook at the turn of the century. As well as a series of tramways along the coast, Sudbrook Road had been created (although not labelled as such). Terraced housing had been erected on either side of the road and perhaps warehouse or storage building had been constructed at the edge of the River Severn. The 1920 Ordnance Survey shows the same field layout within the area apart from the addition of a small triangular parcel of land in the north eastern part of the PDA which has been given over to allotment gardens however this is not shown on later maps dating to the 1930s-1950s.

In the 1960s the surrounding area was further divided and an electricity substation was erected next to the eastern boundary of the PDA. Extra boundaries have been added on a north east south west alignment dividing some of the larger square fields into thinner strip fields.

A WWII pillbox is located within the Study Area thought to have been of Type 25 located 700m to the west of the PDA (PRN09031g). An evaluation for a residential development at Sudbrook Papermill revealed modern deposits and a drainage ditch (E004166). Similarly, a watching brief 500m to the west of the PDA revealed made ground deposits of 19th and 20th century date (E003615g). Unknown A mound of unknown date is recorded upon the HER within the area scheduled as part of Sudbrook Camp (PRN01143g). Black Rock Cottage is also recorded on the HER of unknown date (PRN09481g).

A number of heritage assets have been identified within the intertidal zone and recorded upon the HER but are of an unknown date. PRN04399g, PRN04400g, PRN04401g, PRN04402g, PRN04403g, PRN04404g- and PRN04412g are recorded as fish baskets on the HER. As well as the baskets a significant quantity of additional roundwood was found in the vicinity of these points however, this did not form any coherent structure. Animal bone was also recovered from this area but no samples were taken (GGAT 1990). The fish baskets recorded above were found at depths between 2.12m below Ordnance Datum and 3.08m below Ordnance Datum and all were of an unknown date. A fish trap was recorded at PRN04398g forming a V shape consisting of horizontal and vertical elements. Two other wooden features were interpreted as lines of wooden pegs recorded at PRN04397g and PRN04405g. PRN04405g was interpreted as a line of roundwoodpegs that may have crossed a small shallow channel.

21

Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

6.2 Historic Landscape Character The parts of the Study Area fall into the Registered Historic Landscape area of the Gwent Levels. The Gwent Levels Character area represents the largest ‘hand-crafted’ area of wetland having been reclaimed and inundated frequently since the Roman period. Successive periods of use can be identified from the patterns of enclosure, settlement and drainage systems. Potential for extensive, well preserved, buried, waterlogged, archaeological and palaeoenvironmental deposits survive from earlier landscapes (GGAT).

Within this landscape further characterisations have been made. The PDA itself has not been characterised however it lies between the Caldicot fen-edge (HLCA 12) to the south and St Pierre (HLCA 13) to the north. The Caldicot Fen edge has some of the earliest references to enclosed meadows on the Gwent Levels. This area is characterised as having ‘small irregular shaped fields result of piecemeal reclamation’ with sinuous droveways and areas of common. The St Pierre Character area is focused on the mouth and valley of the St Pierre Pill and the reclamations. The St Pierre character area is characterised by areas of alluvium, flood plain and evidence of land reclamation. An important medieval/post-medieval crossing point is known at Sudbrook point which may have had earlier origins (Roman).

Previous Work at the PDA Subsequent to the Wessex report of 2015 an archaeological evaluation was carried out by Headland Archaeology in November 2015. This evaluation of 20 trenches revealed limited past agricultural use of the land in the form of three drainage or field ditches and a single post-hole. Whilst the features were undated, it is highly probable that they relate to the medieval period and the use of marginal land away from the focus of settlement activity. A single flint flake was recovered from a subsoil deposit. 5.4.3 Trenches 1, 2 and 3 where adjacent the PDA and produced no significant archaeological deposits.

22

Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

6.3 Designated Assets On-Site There are no designated heritage assets within the PDA. Off-Site There are 6 designated heritage asset within the wider study area (2km). Table 1: Scheduled Monuments within the wider study area Project ID SM No Description 1 MM018 Heston Brake Long Barrow

2 MM019 Portskewett Hill Roman Site

3 MM029 Harold's House (site of)

4 MM048 Sudbrook Camp and Sudbrook Chapel

5 MM050 Caldicot Castle (unoccupied parts)

6 MM315 St. Mary's Churchyard Cross, Portskewett

6.3.1 Historic Buildings On-Site There are no Historic Buildings within the PDA. Off-Site There are 10 Historic Buildings within the wider study area. Table 2: Non-designated Historic Buildings located within the wider study area

Cadw Grade Description Easting Northing Ref 2044 I Church of St Mary: In the centre of Portskewett village at the junction 349888 188107 of Main Road and Sudbrook Road.

2768 II* Manor Farmhouse and Manor Cottage: In Crick Road at the junction 349773 188242 with Main Road.

2045 II Cross in Churchyard of the Church of St Mary: In the churchyard about 349905 188148 40m north east of the Church of St Mary.

2046 II The Old Rectory: In Crick Road about 80m north of the junction with 349687 188287 Main Road.

24002 II Sudbrook Pump House: At the end of Sudbrook Road about 1000m 3500686 187429 south east of Portskewett village.

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Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

Cadw Grade Description Easting Northing Ref

24003 II Portskewett House: In the centre of Portskewett village immediately 349977 188205 north east of the junction of Main Road and Sudbrook Road.

24004 II Portskewett War Memorial: In the centre of Portskewett village at the 349934 188153 junction of Main Road and Sudbrook Road.

24005 II Old Cottage/Storehouse in Churchyard of Church of St Mary: In the 349770 188083 churchyard about 30m south of the Church of St Mary.

24006 II Garden Walls of Underwood: In Crick Road about 50m north of the 349770 188295 junction with Main Road.

24010 II Fanhouse at Sudbrook Pumping Station: At the end of Sudbrook Road 350711 187374 about 1000m south east of Portskewett village and behind the Pump House.

6.3.2 Historic Landscape The PDA itself has not been characterized, however, the site does lie close to two sections of the Gwent Levels Character Area, Caldicot fen-edge (HCLA 12) and St Pierre (HLCA 13). The introduction of the proposal has the potential to result in an adverse effect to the surrounding HLC, however, the PDA has a minimal footprint and lies outside the HLC area and thus any impact is considered to be negligible. 6.4 Non-Designated Assets

6.4.1 Archaeological Remains On-Site There are no known archaeological remains within the PDA. Off-Site Appendix 2

24

Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

7 ASSESSMENT OF THE SIGNIFICANCE OF AFFECTED HERITAGE ASSETS Based on the evidence presented within the baseline resource there is considered to be the potential for as yet unknown buried archaeological remains within the Site relating to the following periods: u Prehistoric u Romano-British u Medieval u Post-medieval u 19th century and Modern The discovery of any hitherto unknown archaeological deposits relating to the above periods would shed light on the settlement and activity within this area of the Gwent Levels during these periods and would be of Local and possibly Regional importance. However, an evaluation by Headland Archaeology within the adjacent field in 2015 recorded that this area has a Low potential for significant archaeological deposits with any deposits likely representative of the Medieval period. 8 ASSESSMENT OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS Potential impacts resulting from the proposed development include the following.

u Removal or truncation of archaeological remains and impacts upon settings during ground works, site clearance and construction (e.g. removal of vegetation, erection of fencing, traffic movement, topsoil stripping, resurfacing of the access road).

u Other groundworks associated with the construction of the new development, such as foundation and service trenches, which have the potential to damage or destroy below ground features or deposits of cultural heritage value should they be present;

u Changes to historic landscape character.

u Impacts to the settings of designated heritage assets. 8.1 The Historic Landscape The Site itself has not been characterised however, it lies between two character areas of the Gwent Levels, the Caldicot fen-edge to the south and the St Pierre to the north. 8.2 The Setting of Designated Heritage Assets Consultation with Cadw (March 2018: Ref: qA1283162, Appendix 4) noted that overall there was no objection to the proposal and further no need for additional information on the impact of the development on the setting of monuments to be included in any planning application as any impact is considered very slight. Whilst the Grade I Listed Church of St Mary does share intervisibility with the PDA, this visibility concerns the church tower only and is over a distance of 700m. The proposed

25

Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

development is expected to have a minimal effect upon the setting of the church. No other listed buildings will be impacted directly or indirectly by the proposal. 9 RECOMMENDATIONS This assessment has concluded that based on the data from the previous adjacent studies, namely the Wessex Archaeological Report of 2015 and the Headland Archaeology evaluation of the same year, that the site has a Low potential to produce hitherto unknown archaeological deposits. In addition, consultation with Cadw (RenPlan, 7th March 2018) noted that there are no objections to the impact of the proposed development on historic assets. 10 STATEMENTS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 10.1 Publicity, Confidentiality and Copyright Any publicity will be handled by the client. GK Heritage Consultants Ltd will retain the copyright of all documentary and photographic material under the Copyright, Designs and Patent Act (1988). 10.2 Statement of Indemnity All statements and opinions contained within this report arising from the works undertaken are offered in good faith and compiled according to professional standards. No responsibility can be accepted by the author/s of the report for any errors of fact or opinion resulting from data supplied by any third party, or for loss or other consequence arising from decisions or actions made upon the basis of facts or opinions expressed in any such report(s), howsoever such facts and opinions may have been derived. 10.3 Acknowledgements GK Heritage Consultants Ltd would like to thank Ben Lewis of Renplan Ltd acting on behalf of the client Energion of whom is also thanked. GK Heritage Consultants Ltd would also like to thank GGATHER for the submission of data for this assessment.

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Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

11 REFERENCES 11.1 Primary Sources 1886-1887 Ordnance Survey 1:10,560

1901 Ordnance Survey 25”

Headland Archaeology 2015. Land at Southbrook Farm, Sudbrook, Monmouthshire Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment, Client Report, Ref: SFSW/01

http://idox.monmouthshire.gov.uk/WAM/doc/Report- 381850.pdf?extension=.pdf&id=381850&appid=1001&location=VOLUME4&c ontentType=application/pdf&pageCount=1&sid=

Wessex Archaeology 2015. Land at Southbrook Farm, Sudbrook, Monmouthshire Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment, Client Report, Ref: 108910.

http://idox.monmouthshire.gov.uk/WAM/doc/Other- 370966.pdf?extension=.pdf&id=370966&appid=1001&location=VOLUME4&c ontentType=application/pdf&pageCount=1&sid=

11.2 Secondary Sources Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979 http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1979/46/contents Aldhouse-Green, M and Howell, R. 2004. The Gwent County History Volume 1: Gwent in Early Prehistory and Early History. Gwent County History Association, Cardiff: University of Wales Press. Archwilio: The Historic Environment Records of the Welsh Archaeological Trusts 2017 www.archwilio.org.uk Barber, C (ed). 1987. Hando’s Gwent Volume I- A Centenary Tribute to Fred Hando the Artist/Historian of Gwent. Blorenge Books BGS (British Geological Society) 2017. Geology of Britain viewer http://mapapps.bgs.ac.uk/geologyofbritain/home.html Cadw 2011: Conservation Principles for the Sustainable Management of the Historic Environment in Wales, http://cadw.wales.gov.uk/docs/cadw/publications/ Conservation_Principles_EN.pdf Chartered Institute for Archaeologists Standard and Guidance for Historic Environment Desk Based Assessment http://www.archaeologists.net/sites/default/files/nodefiles/ CIfAS&GDBA_2.pdf

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Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

Cotswold Archaeology 2003. Main Road, Portskewett, Monmouthshire: Archaeological Evaluation. Unpublished Client Report; CA Project 1673 Cotswold Archaeology 2012. Land at Sudbrook Road, Portskewett, Monmouthshire: Summary Report on the Archaeological Excavation (GGAT) Glamorgan-Gwent Archaeological Trust Ltd August 1990a. Archaeology of the Second Severn Crossing: Preliminary Report and Recommendations arising from assessment undertaken in Gwent (GGAT) Glamorgan-Gwent Archaeological Trust Ltd September 1990b. Archaeology of the Second Severn Crossing: Assessment and Recommendations for Gwent Llywodraeth Cynulliad Monmouth Archaeology 2014. 1 Manor Way, Portskewett, An Archaeological Watching Brief for Mr Paul Williams. Monmouthshire County Council Adopted Local Development Plan 2014 http://www.monmouthshire.gov.uk/app/uploads/2017/05/Adopted-Local- Development-Planwith-PDF-tags.pdf National Planning Policy Framework https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/60 77/2116950.pdf Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales National Monuments Record http://www.rcahmw.gov.uk/HI/ENG/Home/ Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act, 1990 http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1990/9/pdfs/ukpga_19900009_en.pdf Planning Policy Wales Technical Advice Note 24: The Historic Environment (May 2017) http://gov.wales/docs/desh/policy/170531tan-24-the-historic-environment-en.pdf Wessex Archaeology 2009. A Time Team Evaluation at Harold’s House, Portskewett, Monmouthshire. Report Ref 65301. Cartogrpahic: 1777 Map of Black Rock Passage Farm and other Intermixt Lands Situated in the Parish of Portskewett, surveyed by Jn. Aram 1839 Portskewett Tithe Map (1841 Apportionment) 1886-1887 Ordnance Survey 1:10,560 1901 Ordnance Survey 25” 1920 Ordnance Survey 25”

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Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

1938-1954 Ordnance Survey 1:10,560 (online) 1955-1964 Ordnance Survey 1:10,560 (online) 1968 Ordnance Survey 1:2,500 1974-1985 Ordnance Survey 1:10,000 Online resources http://reports.cotswoldarchaeology.co.uk/ http://archaeologydataservice.ac.uk/archives/view/greylit/ http://www.planningpolicy.monmouthshire.gov.uk/ http://cadw.wales.gov.uk/?lang=en http://www.magic.gov.uk http://www.old-maps.co.uk/index.html http://www.ggat.org.uk/cadw/historic_landscape/main/english/historical.htm

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Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

APPENDIX 1: LOCATION PLAN AND DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL

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Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

APPENDIX 2: GGAT HISTORIC ENVIRONMENT RECORD

Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

Primary Record Number (PRN) Name Summary Period Easting Northing Flint axe Palaeolithic. One tool type and material, does not appear to Palaeolithic 350310 187060 04413g FLINT AXE be rolled An excavated chambered tomb situated on natural summit within a pasture field. The monument is aligned NE-SW; 2 upright orthastats ESTON define the E end and a horseshoe-shaped chamber to the W. The E 01147g 09715g BRAKE chamber has 3 stones remaining. 09715g The more southerly of the Neolithic 350530 188670 MM018 CHAMBERED two extant orthastats on the east side of the Heston Brake chambered TOMB tomb is triangular in plan. Several cupmarks are visible on the stone's level top. Prehistoric (not further defined). One tool type and material, Group of 04269g SITE NAME 2-10. No function ascribed. Exposure not specified. GGAT 66 Lithics Prehistoric 350400 188500 NOT KNOWN survey 2000. SITE NAME 01146g Bronze Age 350000 188000 NOT KNOWN Bronze Age barbed and tanged flint arrowhead. Iron Age camp situated on the shore of the Bristol Channel at the 01142g 06169g southern end of the village of Sudbrook, formerly comprising triple 01144g 01145g banks and ditches which have been damaged through erosion and MM048 E002264 Sudbrook Camp development. Also occupied in the Roman period. Medieval Church- Multi-period 350529 187321 E002429 and Sudbrook yard cross. Holy Trinity Church within the hillfort at Sudbrook. The E002507 Chapel architecture shows that the original building was erected at least as E003366 early as the beginning of the 12th century; large additions were made in the 14th century. Monmouth Archaeology as commissioned by Nicholas Taylor Associates Ltd to carry out an Evaluation on the land at Portskewett Monmouthshire in connection with Monmouthshire County Council planning application. Fifteen Evaluation Trenches were excavated measuring 20m by 1.8m. Important Evidence of Iron Age occupation and some Roman and Medieval activity was encountered in Trail PORTSKEWET T Trench 2 located just north-west of the village hall. Trial Trenches 14 Multi-period 349850 188340 E002490/ E002301 NEW SCHOOL, and 15 also contained evidence suggestive of a nearby Medieval GWENT- Eval settlement. The topsoil of Trench 15 also produced a single sherd of Roman Severn Valley Ware. The majority of Trial Trenches produced and WB little or no evidence of Roman or Medieval activity. Monmouth Archaeology, was commissioned by Kier Weston, to carry out an Archaeological Investigation during construction of a new school in Portskewett, Gwent. A substantial amount of pottery was uncovered at the site, finds included (but are not limited to) rims, fragments of

Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

clay, Cooking Pots and fragments of Roman Tile (Clarke & Bray 2000).

In this area are many disused, fairly small, surface quarries all of which are grass & shrub covered. There are no visible remains of a 00504g PORTSKEWET T Romano-British 349970 188400 Roman iron-works. HILL

FINDSPOT 01148g PORTSKEWET T Roman coins and jewellery Romano-British 351280 188020 BLACK ROCK

CHARSTON 01153g Romano-British 351900 188100 ROCK Roman coins

Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

SITE NAME NOT 05305g KNOWN Roman pottery: Newport Museum NPTMG 85.209 Romano-British 350000 187000

MAIN ROAD, 06167g PORTSKEWET T 2 Roman coins Romano-British 351700 188000

06168g LEECHPOOL Roman pottery Romano-British 350280 188270

07601g Romano-British 350580 188970 Roman coin A Roman coin dated to between AD 145-324.

Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

07614g Romano-British 351700 188000 FINDSPOT A Roman bronze brooch.

BLACK ROCK 05800g Bronze eagle figure found on the foreshore with coins and jewellery. Romano-British 351700 188000 findspot

07620g FINDSPOT A Roman bronze mount, harness ring, horse figure. Romano-British 351700 188000

Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

BLACK ROCK - CRICK ROMAN Postulated line of road from Severn crossing to Caerwent 07761g ROAD Romano-British 351300 188000 Road, proposed by both Margary and the Royal Commission, as leaving the main Newnham-Caerleon road at Crick, heading towards a probable port situated at either Black Rock or Sudbrook. The Iron Age fort at Sudbrook seems to have been the site of an early Roman fort. 07761g RR60aa Roman Road The route is believed to be fossilised in the modern Crick Road as far Romano-British 349845 188143 south as St Mary’s Church and then by the Sudbrook Road, though there is no other supporting evidence; however once past Sudbrook the route of the road is not known. Area of Roman and medieval occupation off Sudbrook Road, Portskewett, examined during an excavation. The site may be broadly divided into two areas, divided approximately by the relict north-south bank which crosses the centre of the site. Across the western area, there were plentiful archaeological remains, including deposits

containing both Roman and medieval pottery, bone and tile; with pits, gullies, shallow banks and at least one very fragmentary length of walling. Trial trenches produced the remains of probable medieval buildings, possibly associated with the village of Portskewett. Finds of 05313g 05620g Roman date also suggested the proximity of a substantial Roman 07703g 07704g SUDBROOK building. Medieval finds including two iron knife blades similar to ones 07705g 07706g ROAD, found in London, another blade, part of a possible fitting and various 07994g 07979g PORTSKEWET styles of pottery. Site of former cottage and barn built between 1770 E001038 T and 1839, found during documentary search. Multi-period 349980 188070 Excavation-Cotswold Archaeology was commissioned by Barratt Homes (South Wales) to undertake an archaeological excavation at Sudbrook Road, Portskewett in advance of a proposed housing development. The excavations, conducted between August and October 2009, revealed archaeological remains ranging from the Neolithic period to the present day, and main periods of activity are within the later Roman and medieval periods. Roman and medieval banks and ditches were found to enclose the higher part of the site, and a single human inhumation found on site was radiocarbon dated Excavation on to the 7th and 8th centuries. There was evidence dating the Roman land at activity on the site between 2nd and 4th century AD, based upon the E003500 Sudbrook Road, pottery from the ditches which would have surrounded the site. E001038 Portskewett. However, there were no traces of Roman structures found Multi-period 349970 188050 Portskewett is first mentioned in 1254 (Brook, 1988, 83). The church consists of nave

Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

with W gallery, separate chancel, W tower with projecting stair turret, Medieval 349890 188100 ST MARY'S and S porch. The earliest datable features are probably of Norman CHURCH AT date, including the blocked N door. The nave has an Early English S 00506g 08244g PORTSKEWET T window and Perpendicular NE nas S windows. The tower is probably post-medieval. Victorian restoration work is limited in extent. The churchyard is a curved polygon, the long straight sides being those adjacent to the roads; the E side was more curved in 1839 when then tithe map was drawn up, before it was straightened in connection with the development of the road. Manor house, Medieval 350500 187300 01149g Portskewett No Information 03311g SOUTHBROOK No Information Medieval 350600 187300 Field centred at ST 503 878 called Mill Field. Mill in existence by 1280AD in ruins by 1766. Medieval 350300 187800 04774g MILL FIELD May be the mill listed as 4769G. PROJECT REF 05792g NO #### series of 5 V-shaped post settings Medieval 349939 186991 PROJECT REF Medieval 350171 186984 05795g NO #### sub oval small basket, poss. eel basket PROJECT REF 05796g NO #### large conical interwoven trap Medieval 350184 186980 PROJECT REF 05797g NO #### interwoven hurdle with 7 roundwood sails Medieval 350190 186967

Harold's House is thought to have been a hunting lodge which, according to the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, was built by Harold Godwinson (later Harold II of England) in AD 1063, and burnt by the Welsh in AD 1065. In later medieval times the site was used as a manorial complex (Sell 1996). This site is also associated with the medieval earthworks (00505g). Overgrown & mutilated mound with average measurements of 14 x 8m & height of 1m. None of the banks show a stone content & there are no visible wall footings. Watching brief on lying of power cables 00505g 09849g discovered a number of pieces of medieval pottery and roman Black E000058 E000059 burnished ware and an unmortared sandstone wall extending in an E000060 E000061 Harold's House (site of) east/west direction to the south of St. Mary’s Church. Wessex Medieval 349852 188050 E000062 E004332 Archaeology was commissioned by Videotext Communications Ltd to E002552 MM029 undertake a programme of archaeological recording and post-excavation work on an archaeological evaluation undertaken by Channel 4's Time Team at the site of Harold's House, Portskewett, Monmouthshire. Six evaluation trenches were excavated. A number of features and structures were uncovered which demonstrate the sequencing of events and phases of construction at the site of Harold's House. Remains of potentially 12th century buildings identified during the works have been

Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

surmised as animal stalls/stables and a potential tower, which therefore may have been part of a Medieval tower house. Further interpretation describes the site as possibly defended by a ditch with the tidal inlet acting as a sort of moat. Demolition of the structures seems to have taken place in the late Medieval period. St. Mary's Steps of cross are 4.1m sq. at base & have an overall height of 1.4m. Churchyard Socket stone is 0.8m sq. & 0.6m high with broached corners & an 00507g MM315 Cross, octagonal upper surface. Medieval 349905 188148 Portskewett Monmouth Archaeology were commissioned to undertake an archaeological evaluation at Manor Way, Portskewett prior to the construction of multiple dwellings. No significant archaeological features or finds were uncovered apart from some Medieval and later pottery Medieval 349760 188100 Manor Way, was found during the evaluation including an unusual cooking E003106 Portskewett pot rim which may date from the late 11th or early 12th century. Medieval/Post There are no visible remains of the pound. The site is occupied by a 00511g Medieval pound nursery garden. Post-Medieval 349930 188090 01152g Ferry A post-medieval ferry. Post-Medieval 350680 187440 PORTSKEWET T 03683g PIER A post-medieval pier. Post-Medieval 351420 188040

Monmouth Archaeology was commissioned by Mr. M. John to carry out this archaeological evaluation of Rectory Gardens in Portskewett in 1998, following a brief for archaeological evaluation by GGAT. This archaeological evaluation was carried out and the report prepared by Monmouth Archaeology (Clarke 1998). No Roman artefacts were recovered. Two sherds of Medieval pottery were recovered, one each from Contexts 2 and 5. Small numbers of pottery sherds from 17th/18th century were recovered from Contexts 1 and 2 - these could have arrived during archaeological activity (Clarke 1998). Of the 2 04217g E003901 The Rectory, Medieval sherds, the one found in Context 5 (topsoil of TH2) appears Post-Medieval 349661.3 188192.17 E002183 Portskewett intriguing and unusual (in form, glaze and firing). It appears to be a non-local product dating from the 13th century or later (Clarke 1998). The small assemblage of pottery indicates activity in the vicinity of the Rectory Nurseries during Medieval and Post-Medieval times, although it should be noted that there is no indication of the site itself being occupied prior to the building of the Rectory and its associated buildings (Clarke 1998). There is no evidence that any significant archaeological record would be damaged by the proposed development ( THE OLD MILL (SUDBROOK Mill, assumed grain. Probably watermill. Shown on John Aram's map

Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

MILL) as Olde Mill, now in grounds of Sudbrook paper mill. 04769g Post-Medieval 350100 187480 PORTSKEWET MAS assessment of 4 trial trenches produced one cobbled area of late 07629g T NURSERIES 18th/early 19th century Post-Medieval 349591.3 188152.17 A watching brief was carried out by Monmouth Archaeology on

ground works and refurbishment of The Barn, Main Road, Portskewett. The Barn, Main The only archaeological feature discovered was a stone drain relating Post-Medieval 349779 188225 09207g E001339 Road, Portskewett to the old farm buildings. Finds were predominately Post Medieval in date, with one medieval jug sherd. GREAT WESTERN RAILWAY No Information 03682g SEVERN Post-Medieval 351420 188040 TUNNEL SOUTHBROOK 06208g GREEN Green shown on Aram map of 1777 Post-Medieval 350200 187950 SOUTHBROOK 06207g FARM Group of buildings shown on Aram map of 1777 19th century 350100 187850 PROJECT REF 05798g NO #### large basketwork structure Post-medieval 350190 186967 BLACK ROCK 05586g JETTY Timber footings for pier of railway for ferry, 1863 (PRN 1152g) 19th century 351400 188000 HAROLD'S HOUSE 06204g COTTAGES Three small buildings south of churchyard shown on 1839 tithe map 19th century 349880 188050 THE CLOSE,

PORTSKEWET 19th century 349701.3 187992.17 06205g T Three cottages on east side of road shown on 1839 tithe map 06206g MAIN ROAD Cottage shown on 1839 tithe map 19th century 350300 188290 Shipyard was originally built as workshops for the construction Severn tunnels c.1870. It was converted into a shipyard in 1886 and closed in Sudbrook 19th century 350820 187610 08935g Shipyard 1922. Passage Wharf A pill, labelled as 'Lower Pill' on the 1st edition OS map (1881), but as 08883g Pill Passage Wharf Pill on the 2nd edition OS map (1902). 19th century 351562 188512 Cotswold Archaeology undertook an archaeological evaluation at Ysgol-y-Ffin, Sudbrook on behalf of Monmouthshire County Council. Evaluation No significant archaeological deposits were discovered, only finds of Ysgol-y-Ffin, 19th century date and material related to the construction of the 19th century 350682 187466 E000947 Sudbrook Severn Tunnel railway.

Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

An archaeological evaluation for a proposed residential development at Sudbrook Paper Mill. Two trenches were excavated and no E004166 Sudbrook Paper archaeologically significant features or artefacts were identified. Modern 350400 187400 Mill, Sudbrook Trench 1 contained modern unstructured deposits and a drainage ditch. Pillbox believed to be a type 25, possibly remains on an embankment on the siding leading to the Sudbrook paper mill (embankment 09031g PILLBOX between main line and line leading to the paper mill) on the opposite Modern 349800 187800 bank were remains of a brick lined trench Monmouth Archaeology was commissioned to carry out a Watching Brief during the groundworks connected with the construction of two dwellings and garages on Plots 1 & 2, to the rear of 40 Main Road, Portskewett. The site was excavated by machine under supervision. The site appears to have been used as a rubbish dump for many years resulting in an overburden of a varying depth across the site (0.75m-1.00m) of general rubbish and builders' waste. This was removed prior to the excavation of the foundation E003615 Plots 1 &2 Main Modern Road trenches. A trench was excavated for a perimeter wall to a depth of 0.60m below the reduced ground level and the foundation trenches were excavated to an average depth of 0.90m (approximately 2.15m below the original ground level). A photographic record was maintained during the groundworks and plans and sections were drawn and context records were kept. There were no significant features and the only finds were dated to the 19th and 20th centuries. (Bray & Clarke 2011) Mound, 01143g Portskewett 0 Unknown 350470 187260 Wooden Feature- A line of essentially contiguous upright pieces of (apparently roundwood) timber (species unknown) protrude by some 04397g SITE NAME Unknown 350310 187080 NOT KNOWN 0.15m from a curvilinear fissure. It is difficult to determine whether the wood has been deliberately inserted or whether it is growing in situ Fish Trap-remains of a V shaped fish trap, consisting of horizontal and

vertical roundwood elements up to c.20mm diameter, set into grey estuarine clay. An isolated roundwood stake and further pieces of 04398g SITE NAME Unknown 350280 187010 NOT KNOWN woven roundwood near the open 'mouth' of the trap are presumably to be associated with the main structure SITE NAME 04399g NOT KNOWN Fish Basket- 3.08m below OD Unknown 350220 186950 Remains of a fish basket, considerably damaged. One of the major

Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

SITE NAME roundwood elements of this particular basket was identified as being 04400g NOT KNOWN birch Unknown 350210 186950 SITE NAME 04401g NOT KNOWN Fish Baskets- 2.72m below OD Unknown 350210 186960

04402g SITE NAME NOT KNOWN Fish Basket constructed of very small withies up to 5mm in diameter Unknown 350210 186960 SITE NAME 04403g NOT KNOWN Fish Baskets-2.38m below OD Unknown 350200 186960 SITE NAME 04404g NOT KNOWN Fish Baskets-2.12m below OD Unknown 350200 186960 Alignment of Roundwood Pegs- line of 10 roundwood pegs of uncertain date and function protruding a few centimetres above soft and poor consolidated grey estuarine clays into which they have been 04405g SITE NAME driven. The lowest pegs are in the middle of the row and this may Unknown 351070 186930 NOT KNOWN possibly suggest that the pegs were originally situated across a shallow channel. SITE NAME 04412g NOT KNOWN Approximate location of fish basket. Unknown 349830 187100 Black Rock 09481g Cottage Black Rock Cottage. Unknown 351303 188109 The GGAT were commissioned by SWALEC to undertake a watching brief during the groundworks of a replacement overhead line which crosses the site of the Scheduled Ancient Monument No. 26 known as Harold's House. Analysis of the results of the groundwork indicate that no damage was done to any archaeological features related to the site know as Harold's House with the possible exception of the rubble wall Harold’s House, E004332 at the western end of the bedrock. Another possible feature is the Negative 349870 187944 Portskewett collection of small-medium sized stones to the east of the western end of the bedrock, this feature needs further analysis. A very small quantity of post-medieval finds were recovered however there were no finds of medieval, Roman or earlier date noted throughout the course of the cable trench where it lies within the field containing the SAM.

Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

APPENDIX 3: HISTORIC MAPPING

Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

APPENDIX 4: CONSULTATION CADW

Plas Carew, Uned 5/7 Cefn Coed Plas Carew, Unit 5/7 Cefn Coed Plas Carew, Unit 5/7 Cefn Coed Parc Nantgarw, Caerdydd CF15 7QQ Parc Nantgarw, Cardiff CF15 7QQ Parc Nantgarw, Cardiff CF15 7QQ Ffôn 0300 025 6000 Tel 0300 025 6000 Tel 0300 025 6000 Ebost [email protected] Email [email protected] Email [email protected] cadw.gov.wales cadw.gov.wales cadw.gov.wales

Eich cyfeirnod 3151903 Your reference Ben Lewis MRTPI Ein cyfeirnod qA1283162 Director Our reference Renplan Consulting Ltd Dyddiad 7 March 2018 Date Llinell uniongyrchol 0300 025 6203 Direct line

Ebost [email protected] Email:

Dear Ben Lewis,

Welsh Planning Inspectorate Screening ref. 3151903 Planning Application - Proposed Temporary Installation of a 20mw Peaking Gas Development at Land at Southbrook Farm, Sudbrook

Thank you for your letter of 22 February inviting our comments on the pre- planning application consultation for the proposed development as described above. The following comments are based on information made available to us as part of the pre-application consultation and we will review our comments when we are consulted on the final planning application.

Advice

Having carefully considered the information provided with this planning application, we have no objections to the impact of the proposed development on historic assets. Our assessment of the application is given below.

Our role

Our statutory role in the planning process is to provide the local planning authority with an assessment concerned with the likely impact that the proposal will have on scheduled monuments, registered historic parks and gardens, registered historic landscapes where an Environmental Impact Assessment is required and development likely to have an impact on the outstanding universal value of a World Heritage Site. We do not provide an assessment of the likely impact of the development on listed buildings or conservation areas, as these are matters for the local authority.

It is for the local planning authority to weigh our assessment against all the other material considerations in determining whether to approve planning permission.

National Policy

Mae Gwasanaeth Amgylchedd Hanesyddol Llywodraeth Cymru (Cadw) yn hyrwyddo gwaith cadwraeth ar gyfer amgylchedd hanesyddol Cymru a gwerthfawrogiad ohono.

The Welsh Government Historic Environment Service (Cadw) promotes the conservation and appreciation of Wales’s historic environment.

Rydym yn croesawu gohebiaeth yn Gymraeg ac yn Saesneg. We welcome correspondence in both English and Welsh.

Applications for planning permission are considered in light of the Welsh Government’s land use planning policy and guidance contained in Planning Policy Wales (PPW), Technical Advice Notes and circular guidance.

PPW (Chapter 6 – The Historic Environment) explains that the conservation of archaeological remains is a material consideration in determining a planning application, whether those remains are a scheduled monument or not. Where nationally important archaeological remains, whether scheduled or not, and their settings are likely to be affected by proposed development, there should be a presumption in favour of their physical protection in situ. It will only be in exceptional circumstances that planning permission will be granted if development would result in an adverse impact on a scheduled monument (or an archaeological site shown to be of national importance) or has a significantly damaging effect upon its setting. Technical Advice Note 24 : The Historic Environment elaborates by explaining that there is a presumption against proposals which would involve significant alteration or cause damage, or which would have a significant impact on the setting of remains.

PPW also explains that local authorities should protect parks and gardens and their settings included in the first part of the Register of Landscapes, Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest in Wales, and that the effect of a proposed development on a registered park or garden or its setting should be a material consideration in the determination of a planning application.

Assessment

The proposed development has an area of c.0.63 hectares, within a 2km buffer are the following Schedule Monuments:

MM018 Heston Brake Long Barrow MM019 Portskewett Hill Roman Site MM029 Harold's House (site of) MM048 Sudbrook Camp and Sudbrook Chapel MM050 Caldicot Castle (unoccupied parts) MM315 St. Mary's Churchyard Cross, Portskewett

The proposal is for a 20mw peaking gas development, including generator and associated infrastructure, not exceeding c.6m in height. The proposal will not be visible from MM048 Sudbrook Camp, an Iron Age enclosure, because of intervening buildings along Sudbrook Road. The proposal will not be visible from MM019 Portskewett Hill Roman Site, a building complex which dates to the Romano-British period, as the site lies within woodland and views from it are restricted. The proposal will not be visible from MM315 St. Mary's Churchyard Cross, Portskewett, free standing cross in the churchyard of St. Mary's church because of intervening buildings and trees.

The proposal is potentially visible from the other monuments. MM050 Caldicot Castle (unoccupied parts) which consists of the remains of a castle, dating to the medieval period that was restored to make a family home in the late 19th century. The castle as a centre of power commanded extensive views of the surroundings, the distance to the proposal form the castle (c.1.8km) and the scale of the proposed development means that damage to the castle’s setting will be very slight.

MM018 Heston Brake Long Barrow is situated on the summit of a small knoll in the middle of a pasture field. The barrow will have been positioned with intent in relation to variables which might include territory, visibility from the surroundings and view out over the surrounding landscape, in this case particularly out to sea. The view out over the Caldicot Level is therefore considered significant. However the proposal is 780m from the monument where it will be located adjacent to an extensive solar farm which has already presents a large-scale modern intrusion to this vista, the relatively small change presented by the proposal is considered to have a very slight damaging effect on the setting of this monument.

MM029 Harold's House (site of) comprises the remains of a medieval manor house traditionally thought to be the site of a hunting lodge belonging to Harold Godwinson, later King Harold II of England, which is described in the Anglo Saxon Chronicle. Evaluation excavation in 2007 found evidence for a substantial structure that has been interpreted as a possible tower house. Such a structure here will have commanded view of its surroundings including the Caldicot Level. Although this monument is nearer to the proposal at 530m, the reasons described above in relation to its proximity to the extent solar farm equally apply, and in this context the proposal will have only a very slightly damaging effect on the setting of this monument.

Overall there is no objection to the proposal and there is no need for additional information on the impact of the development on the setting of these monuments to be included in any planning application.

Finally, there may also be undesignated historic assets that could be affected by the proposed development and, if you have not already done so, we would advise that you consult the Historic Environment Record held by the Glamorgan- Gwent Archaeological Trust (www.ggat.org.uk).

Yours sincerely,

Diogelu a Pholisi / Protection and Policy

Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

APPENDIX 5: REPORT CONDITIONS

Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

This report is produced solely for the benefit of Energion and no liability is accepted for any reliance placed on it by any other party unless specifically agreed in writing otherwise. This report is prepared for the proposed uses stated in the report and should not be used in a different context without reference to GK HERITAGE CONSULTANTS. In time improved practices, fresh information or amended legislation may necessitate a re-assessment. Opinions and information provided in this report are on the basis of GK HERITAGE CONSULTANTS using due skill and care in the preparation of the report. This report refers, within the limitations stated, to the environment of the site in the context of the surrounding area at the time of the inspections. Environmental conditions can vary and no warranty is given as to the possibility of changes in the environment of the site and surrounding area at differing times. This report is limited to those aspects reported on, within the scope and limits agreed with the client under our appointment. It is necessarily restricted, and no liability is accepted for any other aspect. It is based on the information sources indicated in the report. Some of the opinions are based on unconfirmed data and information and are presented as the best obtained within the scope for this report. Reliance has been placed on the documents and information supplied to GK HERITAGE CONSULTANTS by others but no independent verification of these has been made and no warranty is given on them. No liability is accepted, or warranty given in relation to the performance, reliability, standing etc of any products, services, organisations or companies referred to in this report. Whilst skill and care have been used, no investigative method can eliminate the possibility of obtaining partially imprecise, incomplete or not fully representative information. Any monitoring or survey work undertaken as part of the commission will have been subject to limitations, including for example timescale, seasonal and weather related conditions. Although care is taken to select monitoring and survey periods that are typical of the environmental conditions being measured, within the overall reporting programme constraints, measured conditions may not be fully representative of the actual conditions. Any predictive or modelling work, undertaken as part of the commission will be subject to limitations including the representativeness of data used by the model and the assumptions inherent within the approach used. Actual environmental conditions are typically more complex and variable than the investigative, predictive and modelling approaches indicate in practice, and the output of such approaches cannot be relied upon as a comprehensive or accurate indicator of future conditions.

Historic and Archaeological Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire The potential influence of our assessment and report on other aspects of any development or future planning requires evaluation by other involved parties. The performance of environmental protection measures and of buildings and other structures in relation to acoustics, vibration, noise mitigation and other environmental issues is influenced to a large extent by the degree to which the relevant environmental considerations are incorporated into the final design

Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of Land at Southbrook Farm Sudbrook, Monmouthshire

and specifications and the quality of workmanship and compliance with the specifications on site during construction. GK HERITAGE CONSULTANTS accept no liability for issues with performance arising from such factors