CFA ARCHAEOLOGY LTD

May 2004 Commissioned by The Highland Council, Transport, Environmental and Community Services

This document has been prepared in accordance with CFA standard operating procedures.

Author: Date

Approved by: Date

Draft/Final Report Stage: FINAL

Author: Melanie Johnson MA AIFA FSA Scot and Magnus Kirby MA Illustrator: Kevin Hicks BA FSA Scot and Karen Clarke BA MSc Editor: Andrew Dunwell BA FSA Scot MIFA Copyright reserved: © CFA Archaeology Ltd

CFA ARCHAEOLOGY LTD The Old Engine House Eskmills Business Park Musselburgh EH21 7PQ

Tel: 0131-273 4380 Fax: 0131-273 4381 email: [email protected]

A832 Achnasheen to Kinlochewe Road Upgrade Phase 2: Lubmore to Glen Docherty Viewpoint Archaeological Recording and Excavations Data Structure Report 03/00653/NIDRC Report no. 919

A832/919/0/31/05/04 1 of 79 CFA CONTENTS

1. Introduction 5

2. Archaeological Background 7

3. Methods Statement 11

4. Site 3 – Lubmore settlement 12

5. Site 10 – enclosure at Eas a’ Chlamhain 20

6. Site 11 – old road alignment at Lubmore 25

7. Site 12 – putative cairn near Lùb Mhór 27

8. Site 15 – old road alignment 30

9. Site 24 – old road alignment at the watershed 35

10. Site 27 – iron-working bloomery site beside Glen Docherty Burn 39

11. Site 28 – alleged structure beside Glen Docherty Burn 47

12. Site 46 – shieling near Glen Docherty viewpoint 48

13. Conclusions 53

14. References 54

Appendices

1. Context list 55 2. Photographic register 57 3. Small finds register 61 4. Samples register 62 5. Field drawings register 63 6. Written Scheme of Investigation 64 7. Further archaeological excavation, scope of works 71 8. The Highland Council Archaeology Unit Specification 73 9. Schedule of works produced by the Archaeology Unit 79

A832/919/0/31/05/04 2 of 79 CFA Figures

Fig. 1 Location maps, showing extent of road scheme and general site 4 locations Fig. 2 Sites 3 and 11, location map showing principal features examined at 16 Site 3: inset, extract from 2nd edition Ordnance Survey map (1905) Fig. 3 Site 3, plan of building remains 17 Fig. 4 Site 3, Trench 3, section of polygonal enclosure bank 18 Fig. 5 Site 10, location plan showing trenches 22 Fig. 6 Site 10, plan and sections 23 Fig. 7 Site 11, east-facing section of old road alignment 26 Fig. 8 Site 12, location plan showing trenches 28 Fig. 9 Site 15, location plan showing trenches 32 Fig. 10 Site 15, Trench 3, NW-facing section 33 Fig. 11 Site 24, location plan showing trenches 37 Fig. 12 Site 24, Trench 2, NW-facing section 38 Fig. 13 Sites 27 and 28, location plan showing trenches, test-pits and 42 bloomery mound Fig. 14 Site 27, trench plan showing principal features and section locations 43 Fig. 15 Site 27, sections through bloomery mound 44 Fig. 16 Site 27, sections through burnt material adjacent to bloomery mound 45 Fig. 17 Site 46, location plan showing trench location 50 Fig. 18 Site 46, plan and section of structure 51

Plates

Plate 1 Site 3, polygonal enclosure from the NE 19 Plate 2 Site 3, building remains including primary floor, from NE 19 Plate 3 Site 3, section through NW wall of building, from NE 19 Plate 4 Site 3, platform in yard partly exposed, showing secondary paving 19 over primary cobbling Plate 5 Site 10, enclosure / structure from W 24 Plate 6 Site 10, showing internal face of N wall and interior of structure. 24 The E wall is also visible Plate 7 Site 10, detail of internal face of E wall of structure 24 Plate 8 Site 10, section of mound backing E wall of structure 24 Plate 9 Site 12, showing mound from SE 29 Plate 10 Site 12, showing trenches exposing subsoil on mound, from S 29 Plate 11 Site 15, showing terraced surface of old road alignment from SE, 34 with natural scarp to N and break of slope to S Plate 12 Site 24, showing length of old road alignment in open ground to SE, 34 from NW Plate 13 Site 24, showing length of old road alignment passing through defile 34 to NW, from SE Plate 14 Site 24, showing Trench 2 NW-facing section, from SE 34 Plate 15 Site 27, showing the bloomery mound from the NW. 46 The ranging rod is stood on the mound. Plate 16 Site 27, showing Areas A-C, and exposed bloomery mound material, 46 from SW Plate 17 Site 27, showing cross-section of bloomery mound material in Areas 46 A and B, from SW Plate 18 Site 27, showing slag slab in Area E, from NE 46 Plate 19 Site 46, showing shieling from S 52 Plate 20 Site 46, showing cross-section across shieling, from SE 52

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Loch Gowan 90 A8 0 1 2 3m

Fig. 1 - Location maps, showing extent of road scheme and general site locations

A832/919/0/31/05/04 4 of 79 CFA 1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 General

1.1.1 This report presents the results of a programme of archaeological excavation and recording carried out by CFA Archaeology Ltd (CFA) in advance of construction works associated with the A832 Achnasheen to Kinlochewe Phase 2 road upgrade, between Lubmore and Glen Docherty viewpoint, Highland (NGR: NH 064 594 - 101 585; Fig. 1). The work was commissioned by The Highland Council Transport, Environmental and Community Services (TECS).

1.1.2 The requirement for the archaeological recording formed a condition attached to planning consent for the proposed road upgrade scheme (Ref: 03/00653/NIDRC) by the Archaeology Unit of The Highland Council Planning and Development Service. The Archaeology Unit produced in November 2003 a Brief for the works, containing generic information regarding the aims, methods and products of the work (Appendix 8). The Archaeology Unit also produced at the same time a specific schedule of archaeological recording works required (see Section 2.10, Table 1; Appendix 9). In December 2003 CFA produced a Written Scheme of Investigation (WSI) for the recording works (Appendix 6) to fulfil the requirements of the Brief and schedule, which was approved by The Archaeology Unit.

1.1.3 The archaeological fieldwork took place in February and March 2003, in often wintry conditions with a period of significant snowfall that hampered and slowed excavation work at Sites 3 and 27, although the primary objectives of the recording were nevertheless achieved.

1.1.4 The objectives of the archaeological recording were to:

• record to agreed methods and appropriate standards those archaeological features that lay within areas proposed for development, prior to the commencement of construction works, and

• ensure that the needs for archaeological recording and conservation were met without causing any unnecessary delay or disturbance to the road improvement project.

1.1.5 The authors are grateful to Hilary White of the Archaeology Unit for providing curatorial assistance throughout the project.

1.2 Planning Background

1.2.1 In 2001 The Highland Council commissioned CFA Archaeology Ltd to conduct a baseline survey of the proposed Phase 2 and Phase 3 A832 road upgrade corridor between Lubmore and Kinlochewe, based upon a preliminary route alignment design. The survey was conducted to fulfil the requirements of a Specification produced by the Archaeology Unit. A report detailing the

A832/919/0/31/05/04 5 of 79 CFA results of that study (Dunwell 2001) has been lodged with the Council’s Sites and Monuments Record.

1.2.2 In 2003 the relevant baseline data gathered during the 2001 study was incorporated into an Environmental Statement for the proposed Phase 2 road upgrade scheme. At that time additional survey was undertaken over a c. 1km length on the south side of the existing road alignment, to either side of Eas a’ Chlamhain, where the finalised road alignment lay outside the original study corridor. This additional work, conducted in February 2003, did not lead to any further discoveries of cultural heritage significance.

1.2.3 Both documents contained mitigation recommendations. These were superseded by the requirements listed in the schedule produced by the Archaeology Unit (Appendix 9).

A832/919/0/31/05/04 6 of 79 CFA 2. ARCHAEOLOGICAL BACKGROUND

2.1 General

2.1.1 Baseline desk-based and field survey conducted in 2001 and 2003 identified 39 sites of cultural heritage significance along a study corridor including the proposed road upgrade corridor between Lubmore and Glen Docherty viewpoint (all sites are catalogued in Dunwell 2001). Prior to the baseline survey the National Monuments Record of Scotland (NMRS) had recorded only three sites within the study corridor, comprising two iron-working sites (Ref: NH05NE 1-2) and various old road alignments (Ref: NH05NE 6). The baseline survey demonstrated that most of the significant archaeological sites and monuments identified by the study could be related to one of three principal factors influencing the historic development of the landscape.

• Medieval or later agricultural settlement and land use. • The construction of the military road in the 18th century, and its subsequent upgrading and realignment to form the modern road. • The development of the medieval or later iron-working industry.

2.1.2 The following sections introduce the results of the baseline survey, summarising the text included in the Cultural Heritage chapter of the Environmental Statement (ES) produced for the Phase 2 scheme, but focussing upon those remains that required archaeological recording in advance of road upgrade construction works. Detailed baseline survey descriptions for examined sites are included in Sections 4-12: for other sites see Dunwell 2001.

2.2 Old road alignments

2.2.1 A road has connected Achnasheen and Loch Maree since the mid 18th century, and it is quite possible that earlier droving routes existed. Cartographic and documentary evidence indicate that since then a complex sequence of re- alignments and improvements to the road line have taken place. Roy’s map of 1747-55 records what may be an original military road, forming part of a road connecting Contin and Poolewe. That road for the most part followed broadly the same route as the current A832. However, Brown’s map of 1793 indicates that this early road diverged from the modern line to run along the shore from Badavanich to Lùb Mhór at the head of Loch a’ Chroisg, and thence uphill beside Eas a’ Chlamhain to rejoin the modern line. Thomson’s map of 1826 indicates that this line had been superseded by 1826. A signboard present at Glen Docherty viewpoint records that the current road was a “destitution road” built in the 1850s as part of a wider programme of road construction to provide employment and relieve famine and poverty of local people made landless during the Clearances. Dixon (1886, 302-3) records that a further section of road near Lubmore was realigned around 1874. The 1st edition Ordnance Survey map, surveyed in 1875, records the route of the road mostly on the same alignment as the A832, but also includes sections of former road alignments that had been superseded. Ordnance Survey map editions record that further improvements during the 20th century led to minor route re- alignments.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 7 of 79 CFA 2.2.2 Several sections of former road alignment were identified between Loch a’ Chroisg and the viewpoint at the head of Glen Docherty (Dunwell 2001, sites 6-7, 11, 15-16, 24, 32; ES sites 3, 6-9, 13, 18). Three sections, potentially relating to separate construction phases of the road, lay within areas proposed for development, and were examined as part of the programme of archaeological recording (Table 1).

• To the north-west of Lubmore, a substantial length of old road, surviving as a causeway 4m wide, runs above the current road (Dunwell 2001, site 16; ES site 9; NH05NE 6). Dixon (1886, 302-3) stated that this length of road was replaced by the current line around 1874; it could have been built during the 1850s. Two lengths of a second, narrower carriageway, surviving as a 3m wide terraceway, diverge from the former line and appear to have been truncated by it. These may represent sections of an earlier, possibly 18th century, road alignment. Field survey identified a further section of former road continuing to the south-east, below the current road (Dunwell 2001, site 15; ES site 8); it was this latter section only that lay within the road upgrade corridor.

• Cartographic evidence suggested that a short stretch of old road identified during field survey on the west bank of the Allt a’ Chon’aìgh, a little east of Lubmore (Dunwell 2001, site 11; ES site 3), had fallen out of use prior to the surveying of the 1st edition Ordnance Survey map in 1875. It may have been upgraded at the same time as the improvements referred to by Dixon (ibid).

• A third section of old road within the road upgrade corridor (Dunwell 2001, site 24; ES site 13), at the watershed at the head of Glen Docherty, probably forms part of the road constructed c. 1874, but which had been superseded by the current line by 1950.

2.3 Settlement

2.3.1 The settlement at Lubmore (Dunwell 2001, site 3; ES site 4) is absent from all maps of 1826 or earlier, suggesting that it was first constructed after that date. It is recorded on the 1st edition Ordnance Survey map, surveyed in 1875, as an inn. Field survey identified what were thought to be the demolished remains of the original 19th century inn building, set within a banked polygonal enclosure, on the north side of the current A832 road alignment. The majority of this site lay within the road upgrade corridor.

2.4 Shieling ground

2.4.1 A cluster of eight small rectilinear buildings and enclosures (Dunwell 2001, sites 30, 46-48; ES sites 17 & 19-21), and a further possible example (Dunwell 2001, site 28; ES site 16), were recorded as low earthworks beside Glen Docherty Burn, towards the head of the valley. Most of the structures lay in a sheltered location in the narrow valley bottom, although two (Dunwell 2001, sites 46 & 48; ES sites 19-20) stood in a more exposed location above the steep slopes of the burn. They appeared to form the remains of a shieling

A832/919/0/31/05/04 8 of 79 CFA ground associated with summer grazing or droving cattle, most probably of medieval or later date.

2.4.2 Three of these features lay within or close to the proposed road upgrade construction areas. These comprised the two structures located above the burn channel (Dunwell 2001, sites 46 & 48), and a potential structure (ibid, site 28) located beside the burn a little further upstream, in an area where the Glen Docherty burn was to be re-routed as part of the road upgrade.

2.5 Isolated structures

2.5.1 The remains of a small turf-built structure (Dunwell 2001, site 23; ES site 12) and a larger rectilinear building (Dunwell 2001, site 25; ES site 14) were identified through field survey on the level ground at the watershed between Loch a’ Chroisg and Glen Docherty. Their ages and functions are not certain, although they do not appear to be associated with farming settlement or field system remains. They may have been associated with providing refreshments or, in the case of the larger structure, accommodation for travellers and drovers reaching the watershed, at what historically is likely to have been a convenient resting point. The structures are not recorded on any maps. The smaller structure lay close to proposed road construction areas.

2.5.2 A small, isolated cobble-built enclosure (Dunwell 2001, site 10; ES site 5) was located by field survey in a sheltered location on the bank of Eas a’ Chlamhain. It lay in an area proposed for culvert construction works associated with the new road.

2.6 Isolated agricultural features

2.6.1 Two rectangular enclosures (Dunwell 2001, site 13; ES site 10), probably stock pens, were identified from aerial photographs towards the watershed, although field survey confirmed that only one survived as a low earthwork (the other had been destroyed by forestry planting). This site lay in close proximity to road upgrade working areas.

2.6.2 Several collections of cobbles located in semi-improved grassland near Lubmore (Dunwell 2001, site 2; ES site 2) probably reflect field clearance for agriculture, although some could be natural in origin as they lie beside a burn.

2.7 Iron-working sites

2.7.1 Iron working bloomery sites were recorded by Dixon (1886) at the west end of Loch a’ Chroisg (Dunwell 2001, site 85; ES site 22; NH05NE 2) and towards the head of Glen Docherty (Dunwell 2001, site 27; ES site 15; NH05NE 1). Ordnance Survey investigators in 1966 were able to identify the location of only the latter site. Neither site was identified during field survey in 2001. The Glen Docherty site lay within the road upgrade corridor.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 9 of 79 CFA 2.8 Possible cairn

2.8.1 A possible substantial stone cairn (Dunwell 2001, site 12; ES site 1) was located in semi-improved grassland towards the shore of Loch a’ Chroisg. Doubt was cast upon an archaeological origin for this feature as other, undoubtedly natural, mounds are present nearby. It lay within an area potentially to be affected by the diversion of a burn.

2.9 Quarries

2.9.1 Seventeen quarry scoops and borrow pits were identified along the study corridor. Most lay beside the current road or former alignments superseded during the 20th century, and none appeared to be associated with road lines superseded prior to the 1870s. All presumably were excavated to provide material for the construction or maintenance of the road. Several lay within the road upgrade corridor. The Archaeology Unit indicated that it was acceptable for these features to be infilled without archaeological mitigation, since they had been recorded adequately during the baseline survey.

2.9.2 A series of conjoined quarry scoops lie in pasture at the watershed (Dunwell 2001, site 22; ES site 11), at some distance from the road, and were probably excavated for reasons other than providing road materials.

2.10 Programme of archaeological mitigation works

2.10.1 Table 1 contains a summary statement of the requirements of the programme of archaeological recording, as contained within the WSI (Appendix 6) and based upon measures agreed between the Archaeology Unit and TECS. The site numbers henceforth are those listed by Dunwell (2001).

Site No Site type Recording methods 3 Settlement (Lubmore) Survey, sample excavation 10 Enclosure / shieling Survey, evaluation trench 11 Old road alignment Evaluation trench 12 Cairn (possible) Evaluation trench 13 Enclosures Fence off 15 Old road alignment Survey and sample excavation 23 Structure Fence off 24 Old road alignment Survey and sample excavation 27 Iron-working site Test-pitting 28 Structure (possible) Evaluation trench 46 Shieling Evaluation trench 48 Shieling Fence off Various Old road alignments Photographic record Table 1 – Summary requirements of the programme of archaeological recording

2.10.2 The WSI provided for undertaking more extensive excavation and recording if significant discoveries were made during the sample excavations, in consultation with the Archaeology Unit and TECS.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 10 of 79 CFA 3. METHODS STATEMENT

3.1 All work was conducted in accordance with the Institute of Field Archaeologists’ Codes of Conduct and appropriate Standards. Recording of all elements followed established CFA methods.

3.2 The recording strategy for each archaeological site was proposed in the WSI (Appendix 6). For two sites (3, 27) the sample excavations demonstrated a requirement for further work, the scope of which was agreed in writing with the Archaeology Unit and TECS (Appendix 7).

3.3 supervision or by hand by archaeological staff as appropriate to remove topsoil and modern deposits down to subsoil or the first significant archaeological horizon, whichever was reached first. All further excavation required to fulfil the objectives of the evaluation was carried out by hand.

3.4 The stratification of all excavated areas was recorded whether or not significant archaeological deposits were identified. All excavation sections were drawn at 1:10 or 1:20, excavation plans were drawn at 1:20 or 1:50 (Appendix 5), and earthwork plans were drawn at 1:50. Colour slide photographs were taken including scale bars (Appendix 2).

3.5 All artefacts were retained (Appendix 3); only Sites 3 and 27 produced artefactual material. Only Site 27 produced deposits suitable for sampling for post-excavation work (Appendix 4).

3.6 The locations of all trenches were recorded using Total Station surveying equipment.

3.7 Trenches were not backfilled on completion of excavation except where the depth of trenches necessitated backfilling for safety reasons.

3.8 Three sites (13, 23, 48) were marked off by CFA, including a suitable buffer zone, with brightly coloured, painted posts, to prevent accidental damage occurring to these features. It will be the responsibility of the construction contractor to ensure these site are properly fenced off around the marked off area prior to construction works commencing. These sites are not considered further below.

3.9 Assessment of the baseline survey records for the project indicated that a photographic record of old road alignments had been made in 2001, thus no additional photography was considered necessary as part of the current phase of works.

3.10 In the following sections, numbers in bold refer to context numbers, a full list of which can be found in Appendix 1.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 11 of 79 CFA 4. SITE 3 – LUBMORE SETTLEMENT

4.1 Baseline survey

4.1.1 Cartographic sources suggest that the settlement at Lubmore (Fig. 2, Plate 1; NH 0964 5850) was constructed after 1826. It is recorded as occupied on the 1st and 2nd edition Ordnance Survey maps (1881, 1905), and on the 1st edition map is depicted as an inn. An earlier inn was located at Lùb Mhór (Dixon 1886, 302), on the 18th century road line (Brown 1793), at the head of Loch a’ Chroisg, c. 600 m SW of Lubmore (and outside the baseline study corridor). With the re-routing of the road at some stage after 1811 (since the 1793 line is also shown on Wilson’s map of 1811), the inn appears to have been relocated to Lubmore (although not immediately as Thomson’s map of 1826 shows the new road but not the new inn).

4.1.2 The 1st and 2nd edition OS maps record Lubmore (Fig. 2) as extending on both sides of the road. To the north a roofed rectangular building set within a polygonal enclosure are recorded, together with a quarry immediately to the west. A further small building is mapped immediately NE of the polygonal enclosure. To the south of the road two further buildings are mapped to the west of a paddock set within the corner of a field.

4.1.3 Field survey in 2001 located the majority of these components. To the north of the current A832 road, the demolished remains of the rectangular building were identified. These appeared to include the foundation of part of its NW wall, with a stony platform and SE-facing revetting wall to the NE. These features formerly stood within the SW quadrant of a polygonal enclosure (Plate 1), measuring c. 65m NE-SW by 25m NW-SE, which survived in better condition. It was bounded on the SW by a wall up to 1m high, and elsewhere by an earth and stone bank, in which trees stood on its W, E and SE sides. A drain ran around the N side of the enclosure, outside the bank. According to local information the demolition of the building occurred in the 1960s. Apart from the remains of the building, the wet ground inside the enclosure was featureless. The quarry was found to be a secondary feature truncating the enclosure bank.

4.2 Archaeological recording

4.2.1 The surviving remains of the site were subject to detailed field survey, including a total station survey and photographic recording. Three sample sections were excavated through the boundary of the polygonal enclosure, using a 360º tracked mini excavator. The foundations of the rectangular structure and adjacent platform were subject to partial excavation. The complexity of the remains led to the opening of a wider area, following consultation with the Archaeology Unit and TECS (Appendix 7). The aims of the investigations of the building were to characterise its nature, extent, sequence and chronology.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 12 of 79 CFA Structure and yard (Figs. 2-3, Plates 2-4)

4.2.2 The excavations demonstrated that the rectangular building measured 10.5m NE-SW by at least 3.5m NW-SE externally (Fig. 3). Only its NW wall could be fully traced, and was partly revetted into the SE-facing slope. The NE wall partly survived, but there was no trace of the SE wall, or of the location of any entrance to the building. Sections cut through the NW and NE walls indicated them to be of drystone construction, with faces of squared stones, built directly on the subsoil (Plate 3). The NW wall was 0.8m wide and survived 0.5m high, whereas the NE wall was 0.7m wide and stood only 0.2m high.

4.2.3 The surviving level floor area within the building had maximum dimensions of 9m NE-SW by 3m NW-SE, and was terraced into the natural slope. Flagstones measuring up to 0.8m across defined the primary surface across the majority of the floor area (Plate 2). However at the NE end of the floor area was an area of carefully laid cobbles measuring c. 1.5m by 2.5m but truncated to the SE. The cobbles were set in a layer of pale yellow sand and gravel. Both flagstones and cobbles directly overlay a yellow / brown till subsoil. The primary floor surface also contained four post-holes and a wooden sleeper beam. These are probably indicative of internal divisions and may have been livestock stalls.

4.2.4 There was evidence for secondary additions to the floor surface. In one area a second layer of flagstones set in a layer of pale yellow sand and gravel, probably redeposited subsoil, had been laid above the primary floor. The effect was to create a step up in the floor level towards the NW wall of the building, and thus a floor that was on two different levels. In the NW corner of the building, an area of primary flagstones appeared to have been covered with a layer of concrete, but this was not removed to expose what lay beneath it.

4.2.5 Immediately to the east of the building, a levelled yard had been revetted into the hillside (Fig. 2). Excavation demonstrated that it measured c. 13m NE-SW by c. 7m NW-SE. A revetment wall c.0.5m defined the NW boundary and a bank c. 0.5m high marked the NE boundary. The remains of a wall were also present marking the SE extent of the yard. This wall measured c. 8m long by c. 0.7m wide and survived only at foundation level. It did not run the full length of the yard. The remains of another wall, running at right angles to the NW revetment wall was also present. This wall was only c. 0.3m wide and in a very poor condition. It ran on a NW-SE orientation and may at one time have joined on to the NW wall. A stone-filled ‘soakaway’ drain ran parallel to and inside the NW revetment wall before turning at right angles towards the NE end and running SE out of the yard. The drain was c.0.5m wide and at least 0.4m deep. To the SW of the yard and immediately NE of the building was a possible cesspit containing very dark organic soil. It measured c. 6m long by 1.5m wide, and was c.0.4m deep.

4.2.6 Within the yard was a sub-rectangular platform measuring c. 6m by 4m. It was composed of large flat stones up to 0.5m across, interspersed with areas of rough cobbling, all placed directly above the surface of the natural subsoil. In

A832/919/0/31/05/04 13 of 79 CFA the centre of the main platform was a pit or sump 1.5m by 0.4m in surface extent and 0.3m deep, its base lined by flagstones. At its western end a roughly circular arrangement of stones, c. 2.5m in diameter, had been laid above the primary surface of the platform. It comprised flat stones measuring up to 0.25m across, surrounded by larger stones up to 0.4m across. This secondary feature lay directly above an area of much smaller, rounder cobbles, up to 0.1m across, which formed part of the primary platform (Plate 4).

Polygonal enclosure

4.2.7 The character of the enclosure bank was established at three points. In Trench 3, the bank was of stone and turf construction with a basal width of c. 1.4m and a maximum height of c. 0.8m (Fig. 4). It had been built over a peat formation c. 0.5m thick that in turn overlay the natural clay subsoil. In Trench 1 the bank was of turf construction and survived up to 0.6m high. In Trench 2 it was of stone and turf construction, and also stood 0.6m high.

Finds

4.2.8 The finds from the Lubmore settlement (Appendix 3) consisted largely of small metal objects such as chains and nails, as well as glass and glazed pottery. A scythe was recovered from the surface of the enclosure bank next to Trench 3. Two pottery eggs were recovered from the topsoil over the building: these would have been placed in a nesting box to encourage hens to lay there. All the items recovered were consistent with agricultural use during the 19th/20th century and suggest that the most likely function of the excavated building was as a barn or byre. None of the artefacts was recovered from a securely stratified context.

4.3 Evaluation

4.3.1 The excavations at Lubmore have confirmed that the partial wall foundations and floor of a building survived at the location and on the orientation where a building is depicted on early Ordnance Survey map editions. The building was c. 10.5m long NE-SW by at least 3.5m wide externally, and had been built on a terrace cut into the SE-facing slope. Its primary surviving floor was mostly of flagstones, incorporating a series of post sockets and a timber sleeper beam, although an area of carefully constructed cobbling was present at the NE end of the building. Detectable modifications to the building included raising part of the floor level beside the NW wall of the house, in one area by the addition of flagstones and in another by a concrete raft. There was no evidence for other internal features or floor deposits within the building. A sub-rectangular walled yard or enclosure stood beside the building. Within the yard was a stone platform with a central pit or sump of uncertain function. The platform had been partly built over by a secondary, smaller platform. These features stood within the SW part of a polygonal enclosure bounded variously by a drystone wall, turf bank and earth and stone bank.

4.3.2 The character of the excavated building and yard appears agricultural. The divisions within the floor of the building could have defined timber cattle

A832/919/0/31/05/04 14 of 79 CFA stalls, suggesting that the building had been used as a byre. The artefacts, including a scythe and ceramic eggs, also point to an agricultural function.

4.3.3 From the available evidence it is concluded that the initial settlement at Lubmore was an inn built in the middle part of the 19th century beside the Kinlochewe road. It appears to have continued in use as an inn until at least 1875, but by 1905 (when the 2nd edition Ordnance Survey map was published, and does not depict the building as an inn) it may no longer have functioned as such. Archaeological evidence suggests that the building may have been converted for use as a byre. Local information suggests that the building was finally demolished in the 1960s.

4.3.4 A documentary study of local historical sources would no doubt provide more detailed information on the history and function of this building. However, such a study is not considered worthwhile given the poor quality of archaeological preservation and the lack of archaeological evidence for features pertaining to the original inn. No post-excavation studies are recommended.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 15 of 79 CFA '

aigh '

' a Chon

Allt

Polygonal Enclosure SITE 11 section road

Tr. 2 SITE 3 Platform Tr. 1 Tr. 4 Drain

Yard Tr. 3 Cess Pit Yard Building

0 50m scale 1:1000

Fig. 2 - Sites 3 and 11, location map showing principal features examined at Site 3: inset, extract from 2nd edition Ordnance Survey map (1905)

A832/919/0/31/05/04 16 of 79 CFA WALL

Cobbling WALL

Wood

Limit of Excavation Post-holes Post-hole

Flagstones Extrapolated wall line

Post hole

WALL

Concrete

0 1 2 3m

Scale 1:50

- Secondary flagstones

Fig. 3 - Site 3, plan of building remains.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 17 of 79 CFA S N Black organic peaty soil

Black peat

Clay subsoil

0 1m

Scale 1:20

Fig. 4 - Site 3, Trench 3, section of polygonal enclosure bank

A832/919/0/31/05/04 18 of 79 CFA Plate 1 - Site 3, polygonal enclosure from the NE. Plate 2 - Site 3, building remains including primary ploor, from NE.

Plate 3 - Site 3, section through NW wall of Plate 4 - Site 3, platform in yard partly exposed, building, from NE. showing secondary paving over primary cobbling.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 19 of 79 CFA 5. SITE 10 – ENCLOSURE AT EAS A’ CHLAMHAIN

5.1 Baseline survey

5.1.1 Field survey located a small enclosure or structure on the south bank of Eas a’ Chlamhain, c. 30m S of the present road (Fig. 5; Plate 5; NH 0898 5823). At a point where the steep bank turns away from the burn to create a narrow, sheltered terrace, drystone walls appeared to have been constructed to create a small enclosure. The north and east sides of the structure were formed by walls, and the south and west sides by the steep bank above the terrace (Fig. 6). The east wall was apparently revetted into an irregular grassed bank. The drystone wall appeared to be cobble-built with a rough internal face, surviving to two courses (0.4m high). The interior of the enclosure appeared featureless. The enclosure was entered from the east, through a gap between the wall and the bank above.

5.2 Archaeological recording

5.2.1 An accurate plan was drawn of this site, at a scale of 1:50 (Fig. 6). A 0.5m wide T-shaped evaluation trench was hand excavated across this structure, providing sections through its walls and interior. This work was conducted to allow an assessment of the character, complexity, date and function of the enclosure. At the time of excavation the site was covered in short mossy grass and some reeds.

5.2.2 Topsoil (10/001) was very sticky with bracken roots throughout and measured up to 0.4m thick. The interior of the structure was very wet and a few stones, presumably tumbled from the wall, were present. Subsoil (10/005) was sticky orange sand, and lay directly beneath the topsoil within the enclosure.

5.2.3 After excavation, the interior wall face was seen to be three courses high maximum. On the north side the wall (10/002) was constructed with large stones at the base and some smaller stones along its top, with a maximum surviving height of c 0.7m (Plate 6). The internal wall face was well constructed while the external one was less so. There was no differentiation between the topsoil and the soil matrix around the stones, and the wall sat directly upon subsoil (10/005). A lens of black greasy soil (10/003) was found to the north of the wall (10/002) towards its base, and had a diffuse boundary and sandy texture: its origins are unclear. A layer of grey sandy silt (10/004) was found at the south end of the section against the natural slope. It contained no stones and followed the line of the slope, and has been interpreted as colluvium.

5.2.4 The east wall of the structure (10/007) was constructed of large stones throughout with a well-constructed internal face, and survived to c. 0.5m high (Plate 7). The basal stones rested directly on natural subsoil (10/005). The external wall face was more poorly defined and was constructed using smaller stones and pebbles. To the exterior of the wall (to the east), the mound was found to comprise laminations of brown and orange sand (10/008) and measured 0.9m wide by 0.4m high (Plate 8). These laminations and the form

A832/919/0/31/05/04 20 of 79 CFA of the bank suggest that this was a turf-built bank into which the wall was revetted. A further deposit (10/010) of sand and gravel along with redeposited subsoil was found to the east of 10/008, and could represent material eroded from the wall and bank of the structure. A deposit of dark grey soil (10/009) up to 0.1m thick was present on top of the subsoil, sealed beneath 10/008 and 10/010. It may the remains of an old ground surface or buried turf line sealed beneath the wall of the structure.

5.2.5 No artefacts were recovered during the sample excavations at this site.

5.2.6 Based upon the lack of evidence for internal deposits and stratigraphic or structural complexity, combined with the absence of artefacts, it was agreed with the Archaeology Unit that this structure did not require full excavation.

5.3 Evaluation

5.3.1 Site 10 appears to have been a small structure or enclosure constructed on a slight terrace within the sheltered valley of the Eas a’ Chlamhain. It was a very simple construction, comprising an L-shaped wall partly revetted into a bank of earth or turf. It was built against the bank of the burn to create a small sub-rectangular enclosed space measuring c. 4m by 2m and entered through a 0.5m wide passageway to the east. The north wall had been built directly on the natural subsoil surface, suggesting the removal of turf and topsoil prior to its construction. To the east, however, the bank may have been built over a pre-existing ground surface, and may have been formed of turf stripped from the interior of the enclosure. The general lack of tumbled stone suggests that the wall had never been much higher than that preserved. There was no evidence to suggest that the structure had been provided with a roof. The excavations revealed no evidence for a floor surface, internal features or occupation deposits. There was no evidence of ash or charcoal within the excavated soils.

5.3.2 Based upon this evidence, it is suggested that the structure was intended as a temporary shelter or bothy for a shepherd or huntsman. The structure could have been provided with a light roof that has left no trace in the archaeological record. The structure less likely could have functioned as a small stock enclosure, but appears to have been too small and was difficult to access.

5.3.3 No post-excavation work is considered necessary.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 21 of 79 CFA Eas a Chlamhain ' SITE 10

0 50m scale 1:1000

Fig. 5 - Site 10, location plan showing trenches.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 22 of 79 CFA B

C D

A

0 1 2 3m

A B 10/003

10/002 10/001

10/004 10/005 10/005

0 1 2m

C D

10/001 10/001 10/007 10/008 10/010

10/009

Fig. 6 - Site 10, plan and sections.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 23 of 79 CFA Plate 5 - Site 10, enclosure / structure from W. Plate 6 - Site 10, showing internal face of N wall and interior of structure. The E wall is also visible.

Plate 7 - Site 10, detail of internal face of E wall Plate 8 - Site 10, section of mound backing E wall of structure. of structure.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 24 of 79 CFA 6. SITE 11 – OLD ROAD ALIGNMENT AT LUBMORE

6.1 Baseline survey

6.1.1 A short section of a former alignment of the A832 road, c. 30m long, survives immediately north of the carriageway on the W bank of Allt a’ Chon’àigh (NH 0975 5854; Fig. 2). The former alignment is visible on the surface as a raised camber 3-4m wide and up to 0.6m high. An erosion scar at one point revealed the feature to be composed of sub-rounded and sub-angular cobbles. The causeway ended at the west bank of the burn, where it was truncated by a more recent wall retaining the stream bank: no trace of a bridge remained, and the alignment of the road on the east bank of the burn could not be detected. This former road line is not visible on any Ordnance Survey map, and was probably replaced by the current line during the c. 1874 improvements recorded by Dixon (1886, 302-3).

6.2 Archaeological recording

6.2.1 An erosion scar that provided a section through the road on the west bank of the Allt a’ Chon’àigh was cut back and cleaned up by hand and recorded (Fig. 7). The section measured 6m in length by 1m in height. Beneath 0.1m of topsoil (11/001) a layer of small stones and soil (11/002) was found forming the surface of the road and which was 0.3m thick. Underlying this was a layer at least 0.6m thick of large stones (11/003), measuring up to 0.5m across, which appeared to continue down to the level of the river. These stones were within a matrix of orange-brown sand and were likely to have provided the foundation for the road. The section was not excavated to natural subsoil due to the proximity of the riverbank and flood defences (gabions) associated with the current bridge.

6.3 Evaluation

6.3.1 The recording has revealed the character of the old road alignment as it approached the burn crossing, indicating it to have comprised a pebble surface laid on a substantial cambered cobble foundation. There is nothing in its character to suggest the road was an 18th century military construction (cf Taylor 1976). Since the level of the road surface was considerably higher than the water level of the burn, it is evident that the road crossed the burn on a bridge and had not forded it. No evidence of the bridge structure was identified. The recording provided no artefactual evidence as to the date of the road alignment.

6.3.2 No post-excavation work is required in relation to this site.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 25 of 79 CFA Small stones mixed with mid-brown soil Orange sand 11/001 N S

11/003

11/002

0 1 2m Scale 1:40

Fig. 7 - Site 11, east-facing section of old road alignment.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 26 of 79 CFA 7. SITE 12 – PUTATIVE CAIRN NEAR LÙB MHÓR

7.1 Baseline survey

7.1.1 A grassed mound with some stone protruding was identified on gently sloping, semi-improved grassland near the shore of Loch a’ Chroisg (Fig. 8; Plate 9; NH 0994 5849). It measured c. 9m north-south by 5m, standing up to 1.5m high, with a slight level terrace running along its east slope. Other larger mounds in the vicinity are of natural origin and, as a result of their presence, it could not be determined from surface traces alone whether or not the mound was of archaeological origin.

7.2 Archaeological recording

7.2.1 An L-shaped trench measuring 0.5m wide and with arms 6m and 5.5m long was excavated by hand across the south-east quadrant of the mound, and intersected the slight terrace running along its east side. This feature proved to be a natural mound with 0.2m of topsoil (12/001) lying over natural subsoil (12/004) of dark orange sand with shattered yellow sandstone bedrock (Plate 10). At the base of the slope on the east side, peat (12/002) had begun to form between the topsoil and subsoil, while at the base of the slope on the south side was a layer of sticky, grey, gritty silt (12/003) 0.2m thick, interpreted as colluvium. No archaeological features or deposits were encountered, and no artefacts were recovered.

7.3 Evaluation

7.3.1 No archaeological remains or deposits were found at this site, and the feature recorded during the baseline survey proved to be of natural, probably glacial, origin. No post-excavation work is required.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 27 of 79 CFA SITE 12

Tr. 1

0 50m scale 1:1000

Fig. 8 - Site 12, location plan showing trenches.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 28 of 79 CFA Plate 9 - Site 12, showing mound from SE. Plate 10 - Site 12, showing trenches exposing subsoil on mound, from S.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 29 of 79 CFA 8. SITE 15 – OLD ROAD ALIGNMENT

8.1 Baseline survey

8.1.1 Field survey detected a loop of an old road alignment running up to 30m south of the present A832 alignment to cross a burn (Fig. 9; Plate 11; NH 081 582), and forming a direct SE continuation of site 16 to the NW. The loop crossed moderate south-facing slopes above a recent plantation. It was visible for the most part as a slight terrace with an artificial scarp on its upslope side rising above the road surface. To the W of the burn wall footings defined the downslope edge of the burn, whereas to the east the downslope edge was marked by a natural break of slope. Larger boulders flanked the downslope edge of the road immediately to either side of the burn, and were interpreted as the remains of a bridge or a ford. It was suggested (Dunwell 2001) that this road alignment may have been superseded by the current road line, which appears to have been created c. 1874 (Dixon 1886, 302-3).

8.2 Archaeological recording

8.2.1 The remains of the old road alignment were subject to detailed field survey, including a total station survey and photographic and documentary recording. This provided additional information about the character of the road. Its outer (downslope) edge is defined by a break of slope and there are some scattered boulders along this edge on the eastern side, with a slight bank up to 1.5m wide by 0.5m high. On the western side this outer edge is defined by a discontinuous bank up to 1m high by 2m wide, perhaps formed by material upcast from the wheels of vehicles. The inner (upslope) edge of the road is defined on the east by a break of slope; a small knoll on the interior of the loop of road provides a steep scarp (Plate 11). On the western side the inner edge is defined by a low bank of apparently natural origin. The surface of the road measured 3m wide on the eastern side, reducing to no less than 2.5m on the western side. No road surfacing materials were visible prior to excavation. The road is less well defined to the west due to the less visible scarping. A small burn crosses the road from north to south; two large boulders were visible on the surface on either side of the burn and may be the remains of a bridge or culvert.

8.2.2 Three sections were excavated across the road by machine with the aim of establishing the character, sequence and date of the road remains present. Trench 1 measured 4.5m by 1.5m and demonstrated 0.5m maximum of peaty topsoil, beneath which was blue-grey natural clay. Very slight banks were noted to either side of the road. Trench 1 was excavated close to the position of the possible culvert or bridge, of which no evidence was found. This trench revealed no evidence for a former road surface. Trench 2 measured 5.5m by 1.5m and was located towards the eastern end of the road loop. Peat up to 0.4m thick had formed over a deposit of brown sticky sand containing shattered sandstone, which was up to 0.4m thick. This latter deposit formed the banking on the interior side of the road. Natural subsoil beneath this comprised grey sandy clay with gravel. There was no evidence for any built structure to the road. Trench 3 measured 8m by 1.5m and was located towards

A832/919/0/31/05/04 30 of 79 CFA the western end of the road loop. In this trench peaty topsoil 0.3m thick (15/001) lay over well-defined banks located to either side of the road (Fig. 10). The banks were composed of brown sticky sand with occasional large stones (15/002). The roadway between the banks was formed by the natural subsoil surface, which lay directly beneath the topsoil. No artefacts recovered during the excavations.

8.3 Evaluation

8.3.1 This loop of former road was surveyed and three evaluation trenches were excavated across it. This demonstrated the road to be of simple construction, with the carriageway comprising a slight terrace into the hillside, in places bounded to one or both sides by low earthen banks. It was not established whether the banks were deliberate construction features or simply accumulations of material displaced from the roadway as a result of its use. There was no evidence for a laid road surface. There was no evidence for repair or rebuilding of the road, and no evidence for wheel-rutting or churning of the road. This evidence tends to suggest that this was not a heavily used route, and that it may have been little more than a trackway. There is nothing in its character to suggest that it was an 18th century military road (cf Taylor 1976). In the absence of artefactual evidence, the pre-1874 date suggested from map sources cannot be refined.

8.3.2 No post-excavation studies are recommended for this site.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 31 of 79 CFA track

Tr. 3

Tr. 1 track Tr. 2 SITE 15

0 50m scale 1:1000

Fig. 9 - Site 15, location plan showing trenches.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 32 of 79 CFA NE SW 15/001

15/002 15/002

Natural subsoil

0 0.5 1 2 3m scale 1:50

Fig. 10 - Site 15, Trench 3, NW-facing section.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 33 of 79 CFA Plate 11 - Site 15, showing terraced surface of old Plate 12 - Site 24, showing length of old road road alignment from SE, with natural scarp to N alignment in open ground to SE, from NW. and break of slope to S.

Plate 13 - Site 24, showing length of old road Plate 14 - Site 24, showing Trench 2 NW-facing alignment passing through defile to NW, from section, from SE . SE.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 34 of 79 CFA 9. SITE 24 – OLD ROAD ALIGNMENT AT THE WATERSHED

9.1 Baseline survey

9.1.1 On the watershed at the head of Glen Docherty baseline field survey identified a disused loop of road carriageway, which runs to the north of the present A832 alignment (Fig. 11; NH 0721 0880 – 0731 0872). The alignment forms part of the improved route constructed c. 1874 (Dixon 1886, 302-3), and is recorded on the 1st and 2nd edition OS maps (1881, 1905) as part of the road alignment. However, it had been superseded by the present alignment by 1950. Baseline field survey confirmed that the road line survived as a cobbled track. To the east it crossed open ground, whereas to the west it passed through a narrow defile with steep rocky slopes rising to either side (a topographic constriction that likely led to its replacement). Three quarry scoops were located beside the east section of the road loop.

9.2 Archaeological recording

9.2.1 The route of the old road alignment was subject to detailed field survey, including a total station survey and photographic and documentary recording. This provided additional information about the character of the road. The road describes a D-shaped loop to the north of the present road. At the eastern end of the loop the road surface is approximately 5m wide, while towards the centre it measures 3-4m. At the eastern end there is banking approximately 0.3m high on the southern side and 0.2m high on the northern side. The banking slopes away on the southern side to a level area of boggy land (Plate 12). The banking becomes more pronounced further west along the loop, where reeds and turf have formed beside wetter areas. The banking reaches a maximum height of 0.4m on the northern side of the road and 0.3m on the southern side. Cobbles are apparent forming the old road surface with finer gravel on top, but there is less gravel visible further west along the road. The western end of the loop is more disturbed, with vegetation growth over the road surface and the surface is no longer even (Plate 13), while towards the western limit of the loop large stones visible on the northern side of the road surface had possibly fallen from the rock outcrops above. A small stream has developed over the road surface, cutting into it. A drainage ditch runs along the northern side of the road for its whole length.

9.2.2 Two sections were excavated across the road surface by machine, in order to establish the character, sequence and date of the road remains present. Trench 1 measured 4.5m by 1.5m and was located towards the western end of the loop. Trench 2 measured 5m by 1.5m and was located towards the eastern end of the road (Fig. 12). These sections illustrated that the road was constructed on top of peat more than 1m thick (24/004). The road surface was constructed of a thick layer of hardcore (24/003) (orange/grey sandy clay matrix with angular gravel, very hard-packed, 0.3-0.5m thick) with a thin layer of slightly larger stones (24/002), 0.15m thick, forming the surface (Plate 14). A layer of heather (24/005) was recorded beneath the hardcore in Trench 2. Natural subsoil comprised grey clay (24/006).

A832/919/0/31/05/04 35 of 79 CFA 9.3 Evaluation

9.3.1 This loop of former road was recorded and two evaluation trenches were excavated across it. These trenches demonstrated that the road was constructed of a hardcore foundation of angular gravel and clay with a layer of stones on top forming the road surface. The road was built over a thick formation of peat. There is nothing in its construction to suggest this was an 18th century military road (cf Taylor 1976), and documentary sources suggest that it is a c. 1874 realignment of an earlier road, which was superseded by the current carriageway prior to 1950.

9.3.2 No post-excavation works are required in relation to this site.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 36 of 79 CFA Tr. 1 SITE 24

Tr. 2

Fig. 11 - Site 24, location plan showing trenches.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 37 of 79 CFA NE SW 24/002 24/001 24/001

24/003

24/005

24/004

24/006

0 1 2m Scale 1:40

Fig. 12 - Site 24, Trench 2, NW-facing section.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 38 of 79 CFA 10. SITE 27 – IRON-WORKING BLOOMERY SITE BESIDE GLEN DOCHERTY BURN

10.1 Baseline survey

10.1.1 The NMRS (NH05NE 1) records the former presence of an iron-working bloomery site beside a tributary of the Glen Docherty Burn. A bloomery site of some size appears to have been visible at this location in the late 19th century. Dixon (1886, 90) recorded that: “The traveller proceeding from Loch Maree to Achnasheen may notice, to the right of the road, about four hundred yards before the head of Glen Dochartie is gained, and on the seven hundred foot contour line of the ordnance survey, a scattered heap of small pieces of the slag No. 1. The burn runs past not many yards below. No site of a furnace can be identified”. Macadam (1893, 236) described the same site as “…at the side of a burn a very large accumulation of iron slag of the oldest variety. It is mixed with pieces of stone, with much mica interspersed, and there is also some calcareous slag and burned stones which closely resemble the limestone of Glen Logan hard by. Pieces of the stones of which the building was composed were also obtained with slag attached. Portions of bog iron ore were found.” A site visit by the Ordnance Survey in 1966 (recorded in the NMRS) found traces of charcoal and burnt stone at this location, but no iron slag. Based upon this information the NMRS located the site at NH 0690 5905. The 2001 baseline field survey found no trace of this site on the steep slopes below the road. It was considered possible that dumping has obscured its remains.

10.2 Archaeological recording

10.2.1 The strategy for recording this site was to identify any surviving remains through the excavation of a grid of test-pits across its recorded location, searching for spreads of charcoal or iron slag. The discovery of significant archaeological remains would necessitate more extensive excavation and recording.

10.2.2 Thirty-five hand-dug test-pits 0.5m x 0.5m were excavated across the recorded site of the former iron-working bloomery, to establish whether any remains of the site survived (Fig. 13). The presence of iron slag was detected in several test-pits located on a terrace measuring c. 35m by 17m, which was located c. 30m NW of the site location recorded by the NMRS. Some test-pits contained large quantities of slag as well as a thick layer of very black carbonised soil, suggesting the presence of a bloomery mound (at NH 0686 5908).

10.2.3 The test-pits established the extent of the burnt deposits associated with the site. Following consultation with the Archaeology Unit and TECS further excavation was carried out by hand (Appendix 7). This comprised the examination of the bloomery mound, a series of slag and burnt deposits to the SE of the mound, and trenching elsewhere on the terrace to establish whether any other features, potentially including structures or a furnace, were present in areas not occupied by burnt waste. A series of trenches divided into seven areas (A-G) was opened (Fig. 14).

A832/919/0/31/05/04 39 of 79 CFA 10.2.4 With the hindsight of the investigations, it was recognised that the bloomery mound, which was investigated in Areas A-C, was visible on the surface as a low mound (Plate 15). The bloomery mound measured c. 10m NW-SE by at least 5m NE-SW. A passing place had apparently been constructed partially on top of it, meaning that its NE limit could not be established. The SE limit of the bloomery mound was not established precisely, but lay in the narrow unexcavated strip of ground between Areas C and D. The SE end of the bloomery mound (in Area C) had been deposited over a natural mound, whereas in Areas A and B the debris formed a more identifiable and thicker mound of material up to 0.9m thick banked against the natural mound (Plate 16).

10.2.5 Sections excavated through the mound (Fig. 15, a-b & c-d) revealed it to be comprised of black silt rich in iron slag (27/002, 27/007, 27/012-15, 27/017). There were few evident laminations or layers within the material forming the mound (Plate 17). Beneath the mound in Area C was a layer of yellow and grey clay (27/003) and brown sand (27/004) above natural orange gravelly subsoil (27/005). The SE edge of the mound (27/007, 27/017), excavated in Area C, lay on a sequence of apparently natural deposits (27/018, 27/019, 27/020) and here the natural ground surface sloped upwards to the NE. The NW edge of the mound in Area A (27/012) was heaped up directly on top of natural subsoil. In Area B the mound (27/014, 27/015) reached a height of 0.8m and lay directly on top of natural subsoil (27/005).

10.2.6 To the south-east of the bloomery mound, within Areas D, E and F, was a complex sequence of layers containing slag and lenses of scorched and burnt material (27/008-11, 27/021-38). These layers were 0.3m deep in Area D and 0.4m deep in Areas E and F (Fig. 16; also visible in section in Plate 18). In Area E, a large slab of solidified slag (27/006) was uncovered (Plate 18). It measured 3.55m by 2.6m at its widest points, and was irregular in plan. In section, this feature had a crust of solid slag, beneath which were layers of slag mixed with charcoal and scorched soil. This feature may represent the run-off from the furnace, or indeed the furnace base itself, although no structural elements were recorded. Upon removal it appeared to be resting directly on top of natural subsoil, which was heavily scorched, and there was no evidence for any features beneath it. The complex sequences of deposits in Areas D, E and F appear to represent dumping episodes, perhaps related to the use of a furnace, and may represent some of the final smeltings as this material was not removed to the main bloomery mound.

10.2.7 An L-shaped trench (Area G) measuring 8m by 6m was excavated by machine on the western side of the plateau (Fig. 14) to determine whether any further archaeological deposits survived on the terrace, away from the bloomery mound and burnt areas. Beneath 0.1m of turf was a layer of peat, varying in depth from 0.7m to 1m, lying on top of subsoil. No archaeological deposits or features were located here.

10.2.8 Various deposits were sampled with a view to conducting laboratory analyses. These included two column samples taken through the bloomery mound, as

A832/919/0/31/05/04 40 of 79 CFA well as samples taken from the slag slab and surrounding burnt deposits. These deposits were rich in iron slag, ash and charcoal. No other stratified artefacts were recovered.

10.3 Evaluation

10.3.1 The investigations at this site have characterised what remains of an iron- working bloomery site first recorded in the late 19th century. It occupied a distinct terrace above the confluence of the Glen Docherty Burn and one of its tributaries, which would have provided the water necessary for iron-working. Features identified were a partly disturbed bloomery mound, 10m long and at least 5m wide, composed of black charcoal-rich silt containing much iron slag. To the south-east of the bloomery mound was an area containing a complex sequence of layers containing slag and lenses of scorched and burnt material. A large slab of solidified slag was found beneath these layers at one point. There was no evidence for a furnace or hearth, or any other associated structures, although these could have been present outside the areas available for investigation, beneath the passing place.

10.3.2 Although iron working bloomery and blast furnace sites are relatively common in the area around Loch Maree, they form component parts of a distinctive regional industrial process. The archaeological importance of such sites is demonstrated by the scheduled status of the iron-working site at Fasagh and by the work of the Scottish Bloomeries Project (Atkinson & Photos-Jones 1999), a major research study of medieval and later iron-working sites in Scotland. On the basis of dated comparable sites (eg Allt na Ceardaich, Argyll, Atkinson & Photos-Jones 1999, 275; Strath Rannoch and Ben Wyvis, Ross and Cromarty, Discovery and Excavation in Scotland 1993, 48), this bloomery site is likely to be of pre-17th century, and probably medieval, date. Bloomery technology was superseded in this area in the first decade of the 17th century with the introduction of blast-furnace technology by Sir George Hay.

10.3.3 It is recommended that a programme of post-excavation studies be conducted to provide further information on the character and date of the bloomery site. These post-excavation tasks should include:

• Identification of the chemical / metallurgical composition of the iron slag, and any variations within the bloomery mound (using the column samples) and between the mound and adjacent areas;

• Identification of the industrial processes represented by the various deposits sampled;

• Radiocarbon dating of a range of contexts to determine the chronology of use of the bloomery site;

• Production of final illustrated report on the results of the investigation of the bloomery mound, fit for publication in an outlet appropriate to the importance of the final results.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 41 of 79 CFA A B G SITE 27 Tr. 3 D Tr. 2 Tr. 1 SITE 28 C E SITE LOCATION RECORDED BY NMRS F Test Pits

Glen D ocher t y Bur n

0 50m scale 1:1000

Legend

- Bloomery mound - Terrace

Fig. 13 - Sites 27 and 28, location plan showing trenches, test-pits and bloomery mound.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 42 of 79 CFA A832/910 /054

E

Fig. 14-Ste27,rnch plan showigrcfetud ions. dge of Road

trench edges A une xca a v at Bloomery Mound ed d D e G B 43of79

Slag Slab c b f h

006 C E

Terrace F g

CF

A 0 5 10m - Test pits scale 1:200 a

27/ 0 01 27/015 b

27/016 27/015

Site 27, Area B, NW-facing section of bloomery mound.

d

27/002 c 27/003

27/004 27/005

Site 27, Area C, SE-facing section of bloomery mound.

0 1 2 3m

Scale 1:50

Fig. 15 - Site 27, sections through bloomery mound.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 44 of 79 CFA e f 27/008 27/001 27/009 27/011 27/005 27/010

Site 27 - Area D, NW-facing section.

g Trench h 27/001

27/001 27/021 27/022 27/005 27/022 27/021

Site 27 - Area F, NE-facing section.

0 1 2 3m

Scale 1:50

Fig. 16 - Site 27, sections through burnt material adjacent to bloomery mound.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 45 of 79 CFA Plate 15 - Site 27, showing the bloomery mound Plate 16 - Site 27, showing Areas A-C, and from the NW. The ranging rod is stood exposed bloomery mound material, from SW. on the mound.

Plate 17 - Site 27, showing cross-section Plate 18 - Site 27, showing slag slab in Area E, of bloomery mound material in from NE. Areas A and B, from SW.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 46 of 79 CFA 11. SITE 28 – ALLEGED STRUCTURE BESIDE GLEN DOCHERTY BURN

11.1 Baseline survey

11.1.1 Baseline field survey identified an area of disturbed ground on the SW side of Glen Docherty Burn (Fig. 13; NH 0683 5905). It was considered that this might define the remains of a rectilinear structure measuring 8m by 4m. A single upright stone was identified on what was interpreted as the SW wall of the building.

11.2 Archaeological recording

11.2.1 Three evaluation trenches were excavated by hand across possible features to establish whether they were anthropogenic or natural in origin (Fig. 13). Trench 1 measured 4.4m by 0.5m. Trench 2 measured 4m by 0.5m. Trench 3 measured 2.7m by 0.5m. Topsoil (28/001) was no more than 0.3m thick in all trenches, and was very wet, clayey and with roots throughout. This lay directly above natural subsoil (28/002), which was a stony grey clay with some patches of brown clay. The possible archaeological features were demonstrated to be natural hummocks and peaty tussocks, and occasional stones around which vegetation had grown. All features appeared to be natural in origin and no archaeological features or deposits were encountered.

11.3 Evaluation

11.3.1 Trial trenching indicated that nothing of archaeological significance was present at this location. No post-excavation work is required.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 47 of 79 CFA 12. SITE 46 – SHIELING NEAR GLEN DOCHERTY VIEWPOINT

12.1 Baseline survey

12.1.1 Baseline field survey recorded the denuded remains of a rectangular structure or shieling located in grass and reeds on a gentle west-facing slope above the steep bluff leading down to Glen Docherty Burn (Fig. 17; Plate 19; NH 0652 5943). The structure was visible as a low, oval mound measuring 6m by 5m. It had a central depression measuring 3m by 2m which represented the interior of the building, and a possible entrance, 1m wide, was located at the east end of the south wall. The walls appeared to be predominantly of turf, although occasional facing stones were visible.

12.2 Archaeological recording

12.2.1 A 1:50 scale plan was made of this structure (Fig. 18). A 0.5m wide T-shaped evaluation trench was excavated by hand across this site, with arms measuring 7m and 4m long. This provided sections through the walls and the interior of the structure. Topsoil (46/001) was 0.25m thick maximum and contained banding and black staining from roots. A possible black ash lens (46/004) was present beneath the topsoil, on the earthen floor of the structure, but was defined only in the NW-SE section wall. The walls of the structure were severely robbed, surviving as low mounds with occasional large stones (Plate 20).

12.2.2 Between topsoil and natural subsoil in the N-S section, running beneath the remains of the structure and defining its internal floor surface, was a layer of light brown sticky clay (46/002), up to 0.2m thick. The natural subsoil (46/003) beneath was pale grey, stony clay. The structure appeared to have been built on a natural low rise. There were no other features or deposits associated with this structure and no finds were recovered. Based upon the results of the sample excavation it was agreed with the Archaeology Unit that full excavation of this structure was not required.

12.3 Evaluation

12.3.1 Trial trenching of this structure revealed it to be poorly preserved and ill- defined. The walls survived as a slight thickening of the topsoil associated with occasional stones and, apart from a possible ash lens on the floor surface, had no surviving stratified deposits or features associated with it. The date and function of this structure was not established, and no artefacts were recovered.

12.3.2 The character of the structure suggests that it was the denuded remains of a shieling, as had been suspected from surface traces alone. Along with sites 47 and 48 (Fig. 17) it probably formed part of a shieling ground associated with summer grazings, most probably of medieval or later date. The shielings may relate to the use of the higher ground between the settled valleys for common summer grazing. However, Glen Docherty is also likely to have formed an historic droving route, and the shielings could be related to droving activities.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 48 of 79 CFA Whilst such structures have been generally assumed to be of medieval or later date, recent excavations on Skye and elsewhere in the western Scotland have challenged such assumptions by revealing evidence of the prehistoric occupation in some cases.

12.3.3 No post-excavation works are required in relation to this structure, since there are no materials for analysis.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 49 of 79 CFA SITE 48

SITE 46 Tr. 1

0 50m scale 1:1000

Fig. 17 - Site 46, location plan showing trench location.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 50 of 79 CFA B

Trench Location

A

A 46/001 46/004 B

46/001 46/002 46/003

0 1 2 3m

Fig. 18 - Site 46, plan and section of structure.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 51 of 79 CFA Plate 19 - Site 46, showing shieling from S. Plate 20 - Site 46, showing cross-section across shieling, from SE.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 52 of 79 CFA 13. CONCLUSIONS

13.1 The programme of archaeological recording has investigated a series of archaeological features that will be disturbed or destroyed with the forthcoming upgrading of the A832 road between Lubmore and Glen Docherty Viewpoint. The features investigated comprise former road alignments of the A832 road, an iron-working bloomery site, a former inn reused as a byre, a shieling and a small shelter or bothy. All probably relate to the medieval or later exploitation of the landscape, and provide an indication of the range of archaeological features that can be expected to survive in such marginal locations unsuitable for permanent settlement and farming (at least since the medieval period). The excavations dismissed two putative sites – a cairn and a structure – as being of entirely natural origin.

13.2 The iron-working bloomery (Site 27) was the most significant discovery made. The investigations have provided a record of this site. Analysis of the samples taken from this site should allow further insight into the technology and date of the industrial residues excavated. The results will be of interest as a contribution to understanding the developing technology and chronology of the Wester Ross iron-working industry, which has also been investigated by the Scottish Bloomeries Project (Atkinson & Photos-Jones 1999).

13.3 The other sites investigated have provided some information additional to what could be gleaned from surface survey alone. At Lubmore (Site 3) it was demonstrated that the former inn building had probably been reused as a byre or some other agricultural building. The varying character of former road alignments was established at various points (Sites 11, 15, 24), although nowhere was that character consistent with an 18th century military road, and in no case was artefactual dating evidence recovered. A small enclosure beside Eas a’ Chlamhain (Site 10) was identified as a temporary shelter or bothy, probably for use either by a shepherd or huntsman. Its date was not established, although there is no need to suspect it of being of any great antiquity. Investigation of a shieling (Site 46) provided little information additional to what could be adduced from surface evidence.

13.4 A Costed Assessment containing detailed post-excavation and reporting recommendations relating to the iron-working bloomery site will be produced under separate cover.

13.5 A summary statement of results will be prepared for publication in Discovery and Excavation in Scotland 2004.

13.6 The project archive, comprising all CFA record sheets, plans and reports, will be deposited with the National Monuments Record of Scotland and the Council’s Sites and Monuments Record following completion of all work for the project and approval by the client. The finds assemblage will be notified to the Treasure Trove Advisory Panel for disposal through standard procedures.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 53 of 79 CFA 14. REFERENCES

Atkinson, J A & Photos-Jones, E 1999 “Brave at heart’: clanship and the work of the Highland Smith’, in S M M Young, M Pollard, P Budd & R A Ixer (eds), Metals in Antiquity, Oxford [= BAR Int Series 792], 271-9.

Brown, G 1793 A Plan of the Intended Road from Poulewe to Auchna-sheen (NAS Ref: RHP 11599).

Dixon, J H 1886 Gairloch in North West Ross-shire: its Records, Traditions, Inhabitants and Natural History with a Guide to Gairloch and Loch Maree. Edinburgh.

Dunwell, A 2001 A832 Lubmore – Kinlochewe. Archaeological Desk-based Assessment and Walk-Over Survey. CFA Report no. 661.

Macadam, W I 1893 ‘Notes on the ancient iron industry of Scotland’, Trans Inverness Sci Soc Fld Club, 3, 1883-8, 222-263.

Ordnance Survey 1881 Rosshire, sheets LXXI, LXXXIII & LXXXIV, scale 1:10,560, surveyed 1875.

Ordnance Survey 1905 Rosshire, sheets LXXI, LXXXIII & LXXXIV, scale 1:10,560, surveyed 1902.

Ordnance Survey 1968 Sheet NH 06 SE, scale 1;10,560.

Ordnance Survey 1971 Sheets NH 05 NW & NH 06 SW, scale 1:10,000.

Roy, W 1747-55 Military Survey of Scotland, sheet 24/5.

Taylor, W 1976 The Military Roads in Scotland. Newton Abbot.

Thomson, J 1826 Ross and Cromarty Shire.

Wilson, A 1811 Plan of the Proposed Road betwixt Auch-na-sheen and Loch Maree (NAS Ref: RHP 11675).

A832/919/0/31/05/04 54 of 79 CFA APPENDIX 1 - Context list

Site Context Description 10 001 Topsoil: sticky sandy mid brown soil with roots throughout 10 002 North wall of structure: constructed of large stones at the base with some smaller packing on top; internal wall face well constructed, external less so. No differentiation in topsoil matrix around the wall. Sits on subsoil. 10 003 Lens of black greasy soil to north of wall towards its base, sandy texture, diffuse boundary. 10 004 Layer of grey sandy silt at S end of section against natural slope, stone free – colluvium. 10 005 Subsoil, soft sticky orange sand. 10 006 Topsoil, same as 001. 10 007 East wall of structure: constructed of large stones, well constructed internal wall face, less well defined external face. Site on subsoil. 10 008 Sandy laminations creating a mound on the external side of wall 007. Roots present. 10 009 Dark grey silt deposit over natural, 0.05-0.1m thick. 10 010 Sandy deposit to east of 008, contains stone and gravel along with redeposited subsoil.

11 001 Topsoil: mid brown silt. 11 002 Road surface comprising 0.3m layer of small stones. 11 003 Foundation for road, comprising 0.6m layer of large stones within an orange-brown sand matrix.

12 001 Topsoil 12 002 Peat 12 003 Grey silt 12 004 Subsoil

15 001 Topsoil 15 002 Brown stony deposit 15 003 Subsoil

24 001 Topsoil 24 002 Thin layer of stones forming road surface 24 003 Layer of hardcore – hard-packed gravel in sandy clay 24 004 Peat 24 005 Heather layer 24 006 Subsoil

27 001 Topsoil 27 002 Bloomery mound material, black silt containing slag – Area C Section 1 27 003 Yellow/grey clay beneath bloomery mound – Area C Section 1 27 004 Brown sand beneath bloomery mound – Area C Section 1 27 005 Subsoil, orange gravel

A832/919/0/31/05/04 55 of 79 CFA 27 006 Slab of slag in Area E 27 007 Edge of mound in Area C Section 3, black silt 27 008 Grey clay in Area D Section 1 27 009 Brown soil with red/orange streaks in Area D Section 1 27 010 Black gritty soil in Area D Section 1 27 011 Orange gravel in Area D Section 1 27 012 Edge of mound in Area A Section 1, black silt 27 013 Mound material in Area B Section 2 27 014 Mound material in Area B Section 1, black silt 27 015 Mound material in Area B Section 3, black silt with streaks of red 27 016 Grey/brown clay lens in Area B Section 3 27 017 Mound material in Area C Section 2, black silt 27 018 Orange sand and gravel in Area C Section 2 27 019 Layer of grey clay in Area C Section 2 27 020 Layer of yellow sandy clay in Area C Section 2 27 021 Black soil in Area F Section 1 27 022 Black soil containing lenses of orange in Area F Section 1 27 023 Black soil in Area E Section 1 27 024 Orange and black lenses in Area E Section 1 27 025 Black soil In Area E Section 1 27 026 Brown soil with black flecks in Area E Section 1 27 027 Red lens in Area E Section 1 27 028 Black soil in Area E Section 1 27 029 Grey clay layer in Area E Section 2 27 030 Brown soil with orange streaks in Area E Section 2 27 031 Orange gravel in Area E Section 2 27 032 Black soil in Area E Section 2 27 033 Black soil with orange lenses in Area E Section 2 27 034 Black soil in Area E Section 2 27 035 Orange silty clay in Area E Section 2 27 036 Dark brown soil contained within a possible cut in Area E Section 2 27 037 Black soil in Area E Section 2 27 038 Orange soil containing burnt stone and slag in Area E Section 2

28 001 Topsoil 28 002 Subsoil

46 001 Topsoil 46 002 Light brown sticky clay 46 003 Subsoil 46 004 Dark layer beneath topsoil in structure interior

A832/919/0/31/05/04 56 of 79 CFA APPENDIX 2 - Photographic register

Colour Slide Film 1

No Site Description Conditions Taken from 9-10 11 Site 11, pre excavation from eastern bank of burn. Overcast East 11-12 11 Site 11 post excavation showing construction of old Overcast East roadway. 13-14 3 Site 3, small stone platform to the east of site 3. Shot Overcast East taken pre excavation. 15-16 3 As above Overcast West 17-18 3 General shot of site 3 pre excavation Overcast East 19-20 3 As above Overcast West 21-22 3 Detail of western part of enclosure around site 3. Overcast West 23-24 3 Detail of northern part of enclosure around site 3. Overcast West 25-26 3 Detail of enclosure to north east of site 3. Overcast West 27-28 3 Detail of enclosure to east of site 3. Overcast East 29-30 3 Detail of enclosure to east south-east of site 3. Overcast East 31-32 3 Detail of enclosure to south east of site 3. Overcast South 33-34 3 Detail of enclosure to south east of site 3. Overcast SE 35-36 3 Detail of enclosure to south of site 3. Overcast West

Colour Slide Film 2

No Site Description Conditions Taken from 1-2 3 General shot of quarry scoop to the west of site 3. Overcast South 3-4 3 Stone platform at site 3. Overcast West 5-6 3 As above Overcast east 7-8 3 Close up of site 3 stone platform showing type of stones Overcast East used in its construction. 9-10 3 Trench 1 across enclosure wall at site 3. Detail of east Sun East facing section 11-12 3 Trench 1 across enclosure wall at site 3. Detail of west Sun West facing section. 13-14 3 Trench 2 across enclosure wall at site 3. Detail of east Sun East facing section. 15-16 3 Trench 2 across enclosure wall at site 3. Detail of west Sun West facing section. 17-18 3 Trench 3 across enclosure wall at site 3. Detail of east Sun East facing section. 19-20 3 Trench 3 across enclosure wall at site 3. Detail of west Sun West facing section. 21-22 3 As 9-10 following further excavation. Sun East 23-24 3 As 11-12 following further excavation. Sun West 25-26 3 Site 3 platform cleaned but prior to removal of later Sun West phase stones. 27-28 3 As above Sun East 29-30 3 Site 3 platform with area of later stones partially Sun East removed. 31-32 3 Post excavation shot of platform at site 3. Overcast West 33-34 3 As above Overcast East 35-36 3 Site 3 structure. Detail of east facing section across Overcast East northern wall.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 57 of 79 CFA Colour Slide Film 3

No Site Description Conditions Taken from 1-2 3 General shot of structure A site 3, post excavation. Overcast East 3-4 3 As above Overcast West 5-6 3 Detail of cobble-stones at eastern end of structure A. Overcast West 7-8 3 General shots of structure A post excavation. Sun East 9-10 3 As above Sun West 11-12 3 Detail of cobbles at eastern end of structure A after final Sun West cleaning..

Colour Slide Film 4

No Site Description Conditions Taken from 1-2 3 Site 3, structure A after final cleaning. Sun West 3-4 3 As above Sun East 5-6 3 Site 3, structure A with cobbles and top flagstones Overcast East removed. 7-8 3 As above Overcast West 9-10 3 Site 3 structure A with further flagstones removed and Overcast East sondage dug at eastern end. 11-12 3 General post excavation shot of site 3. Sun West 13-14 3 As above Sun East 15-16 3 Site 3, stone platform post final excavation. Sun South 17-18 3 As above Sun West 19-20 3 As above Sun East

Colour Slide Film 5

No Site Description Conditions Taken from 1- Registration Shot 2-3 10 Internal wall face, south facing. Cloudy/bright South 4-5 10 Internal wall face, west facing. Cloudy/bright West 6-7 10 External wall face, north facing. Cloudy/bright North 8-9 10 General from south. Cloudy/bright South 10-11 10 General from west. Cloudy/bright west 12-13 10 East facing section Cloudy/bright East 14-15 10 South facing section. Cloudy/bright SE 16-17 10 North facing section. Cloudy/bright NE 18-28 24 Site 24, Old Road, pre excavation shots taken at c.15 to Cloudy/bright East 20m intervals. 29-30 24 General shots of road, pre excavation. Cloudy/bright West 31-32 24 West facing section Cloudy/bright West 33-34 24 West facing section Cloudy/bright West

Colour Slide Film 6

No Site Description Conditions Taken from 1 Registration Shot 2-3 28 Trench 2 Overcast NW 4-5 28 Trench 1 Overcast South 6-7 28 Trench 3 Overcast North 8-9 28 General Wet SW 10-11 28 General Wet South

A832/919/0/31/05/04 58 of 79 CFA 12-13 28 General Wet SE 14-15 15 Along west end of route. Overcast West 16-17 15 Along east end of route. Overcast West 18-23 15 Along route Overcast East 24-25 15 Trench 1, general Overcast South 26-27 15 Trench 1, west facing section Overcast West 28-29 15 Trench 2 Overcast NW 30-31 15 Trench 2 Overcast West 32-33 15 General of west end. Overcast NW 34-35 15 General of west end Overcast SE 36-37 15 Trench 3 Overcast

Colour Slide Film 7

No Site Description Conditions Taken from 1 Registration Shot 2-3 24 General showing damage from above. Bright NE 4-5 24 General from above. Bright NW 6-7 12 Pre excavation Bright SE 8-9 12 Pre excavation Bright South 10-11 12 Excavation shot, east. Overcast East 12-13 12 Excavation slot, south. Overcast South 14-15 46 Pre excavation Overcast NE 16-17 46 Pre excavation Overcast East 18-19 46 Pre excavation Overcast SE 20-21 46 Slot excavation Bright NE 22-23 46 Slot excavation Bright SW 24-25 46 Slot excavation Bright East 26-27 46 East facing section, interior. Bright SE 28-29 New site Bright NE 30-31 New site Bright East 32-33 3 Structure A fully exposed. Bright West 34 3 As above Bright East

Colour Slide Film 8

No Site Description Conditions Taken from 1 Registration Shot 2-9 27 General shots from various angles. Overcast Various 10-11 27 General shot of Area A and B Overcast SW 12-13 27 General shot of Area B. Overcast SW 14-15 27 General shot of Area C. Overcast SW 16-17 27 General shot of Area D and E. Overcast SW 18-19 27 General shot of Area E, slag slab. Overcast NW 20-21 27 As above Overcast NE 22-23 27 General shot of Area F. Overcast SE 24-25 27 General shot of Area F and E. Overcast NW 26-27 27 General shot of site. Overcast South 28-29 27 As above Overcast North 30-31 27 Shot of Area A, Section 1. Overcast West 32-33 27 Shot of Area B, Section 1. Overcast West 34-35 27 Shot of Area B, Section 2. Overcast NW 36-37 27 Shot of Area B, Section 3. Overcast West

A832/919/0/31/05/04 59 of 79 CFA Colour Slide Film 9

No Site Description Conditions Taken from 1 Registration Shot 2-3 27 Area C, Section 1 Overcast SW 4-5 27 Area C, Section 2 Overcast NW 6-7 27 Area C, Section 3 Overcast SW 8-9 27 General shot of Area A, B and C Overcast South 10-11 27 As above Overcast NW 12-14 27 Area E, Temp. Section Overcast West 15-16 27 General shot of Area G section Overcast NE 17-18 27 As above Overcast NW 19-26 27 Slab of slag in Area E. Overcast Various 27-28 27 Section of slag slab. Overcast South 29-30 27 Area E after removal of slag slab Overcast SE 31-32 27 Area E, Section 1 Overcast NE 33-34 27 Area E, Section 2 Overcast SE 35-36 27 Area D, Section 1 Overcast SE 37 27 Area F, Section 1 Overcast NW

A832/919/0/31/05/04 60 of 79 CFA APPENDIX 3 - Small finds register

SF no. Site Context Description 1 Site 27 Test-pit 1 Glass 2 Site 3 Topsoil Glass 3 Site 3 De turfing Glass 4 Site 3 De turfing Metal 5 Site 3 De turfing Ceramic eggs 6 Site 3 Cleaning Whet stone 7 Site 3 Cleaning Modern Pottery 8 Site 3 Topsoil Mixed

A832/919/0/31/05/04 61 of 79 CFA APPENDIX 4 - Samples register

Sample Site Context Description Quantity no. 1 Site 27 Test-pit 1/Section 1 Charcoal 1 bag 2 Site 27 Area E Slag slab 2 bags 3 Site 27 Area F Slag 1 bag 4 Site 27 Test-pit 1 Slag 3 bags 5 Site 27 Test-pit 1 Slag 1 bag 6 Site 27 Test-pit 2 Slag 1 bag 7 Site 27 Test-pit 3 Slag 1 bag 8 Site 27 Test-pit 4 Slag 1 bag 9 Site 27 Test-pit 27 Slag 1 bag 10 Site 27 Test-pit 6 Slag 1 bag 11 Site 27 Test-pit 9 Slag 1 bag 12 Site 27 Test-pit 8 Slag 1 bag 13 Site 27 Test-pit 10 Slag 1 bag 14 Site 27 Test-pit 14 Slag 1 bag 15 Site 27 Test-pit 34 Slag 1 bag 16 Site 27 Area E Slag 1 bag 17 Site 27 Area E Slag 1 bag 18 Site 27 Area E Slag 1 bag 19 Site 27 Area E Slag 1 bag 20 Site 27 Area E Slag 1 Bag 21 Site 27 Test-pit 27 Slag 1 bag 22 Site 27 Test-pit 33 Slag 1 bag 23 Site 27 Test-pit 5 Slag 1 bag 24 Site 27 Test-pit 32 Slag 1 bag 25 Site 27 Test-pit 1 Slag 1 bag 26 Site 27 Test-pit 1 Slag 1 bag 27 Site 27 Test-pit 1 Slag 1 bag 28 Site 27 Test-pit 1 Slag 1 bag 29 Site 27 Area B Column 302, 0-20cm Soil 1 bag 30 Site 27 Area B Column 2, 20-40cm Soil 1 bag 31 Site 27 Area B Column 2, 40-60cm Soil 1 bag 32 Site 27 Area C Column 1, 0-20cm Soil 1 bag 33 Site 27 Area C Column 1, 20-40cm Soil 1 bag 34 Site 27 Area C Column 1, 40-60cm Soil 1 bag 35 Site 27 Area C Column 1, 60-80cm Soil 1 bag

A832/919/0/31/05/04 62 of 79 CFA APPENDIX 5 - Field drawings register

Drawing Sheet Scale Plan/ Site Contexts no. no. section 1 1 1:50 Plan 46 Pre-exc. plan of Site 46 structure 2 1 1:20 Section 46 N-facing section across Site 46 3 1 1:20 Section 46 E-facing section across Site 46 4 2 1:20 Plan 3 Overlay of NE quad of Trench 2 5 2 1:20 Plan 3 Plan of Trench 2 6 3 1:50 Plan 3 Sketch plan of Structure A 7 4 1:20 Section 24 Trench 1, W-facing section 8 4 1:20 Section 24 Trench 2, N-facing section 9 5 1:50 Plan 10 Pre-exc. Plan of Site 10 structure 10 5 1:20 Section 10 E-facing section across site 10 11 5 1:20 Section 10 S-facing section across site 10 12 6 1:10 Section 3 Trench 2, E-facing section across bank 13 6 1:10 Section 3 Trench 3, E-facing section across bank 14 7 1:20 Section 3 Profile across Structure A 15 7 1:20 Section 3 E-facing section through N wall of Structure A 16 8 1:20 Plan 3 Structure A 17 9 1:20 Section 11 E-facing section 18 9 1:10 Section 3 Trench 1, E-facing section across bank 19 10 1:20 Section 15 Trench 2, SW-facing section 20 10 1:20 Section 15 Trench 1, W-facing section 21 10 1:20 Section 15 Trench 3, NW-facing section 22 11 1:50 Plan 27 Plan of Area E showing slag 23 11 1:20 Section 27 Area C, Section 3, N-facing 24 12 1:20 Section 27 Area C, Section 1, SE-facing 25 12 1:50 Plan 3 Final plan of Structure A 26 13 1:20 Section 27 Area D, Section 1, W-facing 27 14 1:20 Section 27 Area A, Section 1, NE facing 28 14 1:20 Section 27 Area B, Section 2, W-facing 29 14 1:20 Section 27 Area B, Section 1, E-facing 30 14 1:20 Section 27 Area B, Section 3, N-facing 31 14 1:20 Section 27 Area C, Section 2, W-facing 32 15 1:20 Section 27 Area F, Section 1, W-facing 33 15 1:20 Section 27 Area E, Section 1, E-facing 34 15 1:20 Section 27 Area E, Section 2, S-facing

A832/919/0/31/05/04 63 of 79 CFA APPENDIX 6 – Written Scheme of Investigation

1. Background

1.1 The Highland Council Transport, Environmental and Community Services require a programme of archaeological recording to be conducted in advance of the construction works associated with the A832 Achnasheen to Kinlochewe Phase 2 road upgrade, between Lubmore and Glen Docherty viewpoint.

1.2 In 2001 The Highland Council commissioned CFA Archaeology Ltd to conduct a baseline survey of the proposed Phase 2 and Phase 3 road upgrade corridor between Lubmore and Kinlochewe, based upon a preliminary route alignment design. The survey was conducted to fulfil the requirements of a Specification produced by the Archaeology Unit of the Council’s Planning and Development Service. A report detailing the results of that study (CFA Report 661; Dunwell 2001) has been lodged with the Council’s Sites and Monuments Record.

1.3 In 2003 the baseline data gathered during the 2001 study was incorporated into an Environmental Statement for the proposed road upgrade project. At that time additional survey was undertaken over a c. 1km length on the south side of the existing road alignment, to either side of Eas a’ Chlamhain, where the finalised road alignment lay outside the original study corridor. This additional work, conducted in February 2003, did not lead to any further discoveries of cultural heritage significance.

1.4 A Brief for the programme of mitigation works has been produced by The Highland Council Archaeology Unit. The Brief contains generic information regarding the aims, methods and products of the work. A specific scope of archaeological works approved by The Highland Council’s Archaeology Unit is reproduced below (Table 1).

1.5 The work proposed in this document will meet all requirements of the Brief (Ref: 03/00653/NIDRC).

2. Aims and Objectives

2.1 The objectives of the study are to:

• record to agreed methods and appropriate standards those archaeological features that lie within areas proposed for development, prior to the commencement of construction works,

• ensure that the needs for archaeological recording and conservation are met without causing any unnecessary delay or disturbance to the road improvement project.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 64 of 79 CFA 3. Methods Statement

3.1 General

3.1.1 All work will be conducted with regard to the Institute of Field Archaeologists Code of Conduct and relevant Standards. Recording of all elements will be done following established CFA methods.

3.2 Desk-Based Assessment

3.2.1 CFA has assessed the need for updating the desk-based assessment and has concluded that there is no need. The desk-based information available is up- to-date as of February 2003.

3.3 Recording Strategy

3.3.1 Table 1 contains a summary statement of the requirements of the programme of archaeological recording, as agreed between The Highland Council’s Archaeology Unit and Transport, Environmental and Community Services. The site numbers are those included in CFA Report 661.

Site No Site type Recording methods 3 Settlement (Lubmore) Survey, sample excavation 10 Enclosure (Shieling) Survey, evaluation trench* 11 Old Road Alignment Evaluation trench 12 Cairn Evaluation trench 13 Enclosures Fence off 15 Old Road Survey and sample excavation* 23 Structure Fence off 24 Old Road/quarries Survey and sample excavation 27 Iron Working Site Test-pitting* 28 Structure (Possible) Evaluation trench* 46 Shieling Evaluation trench* 48 Shieling Fence off Various Old Road Photographic record Table 1 – Summary requirements

3.3.2 If significant discoveries are made during sample excavations, more extensive excavation and recording may be required. The scope of such work will require to be agreed in consultation with THC’s Archaeology Unit and Transport, Environmental and Community Services prior to their commencement. Those sites indicated by an asterisk in Table 1 are considered to be those more likely to require recording additional to that specified in this WSI.

3.3.3 Site 3 - Lubmore

The surviving remains of the site on the north side of the road will be subject to detailed field survey, including a total station survey and photographic and documentary recording. A minimum of three sample sections will be

A832/919/0/31/05/04 65 of 79 CFA excavated by machine through the enclosure bank and recorded, and the surviving remains of the building will be examined by hand excavation. It is anticipated that the investigations will characterise the nature, extent, sequence and chronology of the poorly preserved building remains, but will not require the full excavation of all remains. It is not anticipated that these investigations would lead to the requirement for more extensive excavations.

3.3.4 Site 10 - Shieling

An accurate plan will be drawn of this site, at a scale of 1:50. A 1.5m wide T- shaped evaluation trench will be hand excavated across this structure. This will provide sections through the walls and the interior of the feature, and will allow an assessment to be made of its character, complexity, date and function. Depending upon the results, further excavation work may be required.

3.3.5 Site 11 – Old road alignment

This site lies very close to the current line of the A832 and as a result excavation of this feature poses some practical difficulties. It is proposed that the erosion scar that currently provides a section through the road on the west bank of the Allt a’ Chon’aigh will be cleaned up by hand (cut back as appropriate) and recorded.

3.3.6 Site 12 – Possible cairn

CFA propose to hand excavate and record an L-shaped trench 1.5m wide across one quadrant of the mound. This will allow a rapid assessment to be made of the mound structure, particularly whether it is a natural mound or a man-made cairn. If the feature proves to be of significant archaeological interest, we understand that the development will be designed to preserve in situ the mound. The trench will examine the south-east quadrant of the mound, and will intersect a slight terrace running along its east side.

3.3.7 Site 13 - Enclosures

To prevent accidental damage occurring to this feature it will be fenced off. CFA will mark off the site including a suitable buffer zone with brightly coloured, painted posts. It will be the responsibility of the construction contractor to ensure the site is properly fenced off around the marked off area prior to construction.

3.3.8 Site 15 – Old road alignment

The remains of the old road alignment will be subject to detailed field survey, including a total station survey and photographic and documentary recording. Three sample sections will be excavated by machine and recorded, to establish the character, sequence and date of the road remains present. One of these will be excavated close to the position of an apparent culvert or low bridge. Additional hand excavation may be required should remains of the 18th century military road survive.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 66 of 79 CFA 3.3.9 Site 23 - Structure

To prevent accidental damage occurring to this feature it will be fenced off. CFA will mark off the site including a suitable buffer zone with brightly coloured, painted posts. It will be the responsibility of the construction contractor to ensure the site is properly fenced off around the marked off area prior to construction.

3.3.10 Site 24 – Old road alignment

The remains of the old road alignment will be subject to detailed field survey, including a total station survey and photographic and documentary recording. Two sample sections will be excavated by machine and recorded, to establish the character, sequence and date of the road remains present. This is c. 1874 re-alignment of an earlier road, which was superseded by the current carriageway prior to 1950. Therefore it seems unlikely that the recording will lead to any discoveries of particular significance requiring further analysis.

3.3.11 Site 27 – Possible iron-working site

A grid of hand-dug test-pits 0.5m x 0.5m will be excavated across the recorded site of the former iron working bloomery, to establish whether any remains of the site survive. Its presence should be detectable through spreads of iron slag and/or charcoal within the topsoil and any buried soils. Test pits will be excavated at 5m intervals, and it is anticipated that c 30 test-pits will be excavated to examine the previously recorded site location. Discovery of significant archaeological remains may lead to the requirement for further excavation and recording.

3.3.12 Site 28 – Structure (possible)

A 1:50 scale plan will be made of this putative structure. A 1.5m wide T- shaped evaluation trench will be excavated by hand across the putative structure to establish whether the feature is anthropogenic or natural in origin. This will provide sections through its supposed walls and the interior of the feature that will allow an assessment to be made of the character, complexity and date and function. Further excavation may be required should significant archaeological remains survive.

3.3.13 Site 46 - Shieling

A 1:50 scale plan will be made of this structure. A 1.5m wide T-shaped evaluation trench will be excavated by hand across this site. This will provide sections through the walls and the interior of the feature that will allow an assessment to be made of its character, complexity and date and function. Further excavation may be required should significant archaeological remains survive.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 67 of 79 CFA 3.3.14 Site 48 - Shieling

To prevent accidental damage occurring to this feature it will be fenced off. CFA will mark off the site including a suitable buffer zone with brightly coloured, painted posts. It will be the responsibility of the construction contractor to ensure the site is properly fenced off around the marked off area prior to construction.

3.3.15 Old road alignments to be infilled

In addition to the works detailed above John Wood, Senior Archaeologist has requested that those sections of the old road to be infilled be photographed prior to this occurring. CFA will liaise with Transport, Environmental and Community Services to establish which road sections will be infilled, and will make photographic records of those areas.

3.3.16 Trenches will be excavated by machine under direct archaeological supervision or by hand by archaeological staff as appropriate to remove topsoil and modern deposits down to subsoil or the first significant archaeological horizon, whichever is reached first. Any further excavation required to fulfil the objectives of the evaluation will be carried out by hand. Sufficient of the features will be excavated to evaluate their nature and depth.

3.3.17 The stratification of all excavated areas will be recorded, whether or not significant archaeological deposits have been identified. Recording of all elements will follow established CFA methods. All excavation sections will be drawn at 1:10, excavation plans will be drawn at 1:20 and colour slide photographs and digital images will be taken including scale bars.

3.3.18 The locations of all trenches will be recorded using industry standard Total Station surveying equipment.

3.3.19 Trenches will not be backfilled on completion of excavation, unless otherwise requested.

4. Products and Reporting

4.1 An illustrated Data Structure Report on the results of the evaluations and any consequent works will be produced and distributed according to standard CFA procedures and the format specified in the Brief. We will produce a Costed Assessment containing appropriate post-excavation and reporting recommendations, if necessary.

4.2 In the event that the results of the investigation are of sufficient significance to merit full publication, we could proceed to this stage subject to the approval of the client and in consultation with The Highland Council Planning and Development Service Archaeology Unit.

4.3 A summary statement of results will be prepared, for publication in Discovery and Excavation in Scotland 2004.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 68 of 79 CFA 4.4 The project archive, comprising all CFA record sheets, plans and reports, will be deposited with the National Monuments Record of Scotland following completion of all work for the project and approval by the client. The finds assemblage will be notified to Treasure Trove Advisory Panel for disposal through standard procedures.

5. Mitigation

5.1 This section outlines possible mitigation measures that may be required as a result of the evaluations. The client should be aware that any or all of these responses may be required.

5.2 If no or limited remains of archaeological interest are identified during the evaluations then CFA can recommend that no further work in mitigation will be required prior to redevelopment. However the final decision regarding mitigation lies with Highland Council Planning and Development Service Archaeology Unit. Where further work is required we propose to move on to the next stage of work without a break, subject to approval.

5.3 If substantial remains are revealed as a result of this phase of evaluations, further work may be required, and in these cases additional time and resources will be required. Should substantial remains be discovered CFA will make recommendations for mitigation to be discussed between CFA, the client and the Highland Council Planning and Development Service Archaeology Unit. Significant discoveries likely to require further work will be reported to the client and Archaeology Unit within 24 hours.

5.4 Mitigation can take several forms depending on the scale and quality of the remains identified. Such measures range from watching briefs to open area excavation of areas prior to any development.

6. Resources and Programming

6.1 The works will be managed by Bruce Glendinning BSc PgDip MIFA, who has considerable experience of managing comparable projects across Scotland, both for CFA and previously for SUAT Ltd.

6.2 Field Director for CFA will be Melanie Johnson MA FSA Scot AIFA, who has considerable experience of conducting survey and excavations across Scotland. The evaluation of Site 28, which may require to be completed prior to Christmas 2003, will be conducted by a reserve Field Officer (to be selected depending upon availability and timing of the work), as Ms Johnson is unavailable at that time. The replacement will have comparable experience and qualifications.

6.3 If appointed, CVs for the appropriate staff can be forwarded prior to the start of the project.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 69 of 79 CFA 6.4 All CFA staff are inducted into the Company’s Health and Safety Policy. All CFA fieldwork projects are subject to formal, written Risk Assessment procedures.

6.5 We understand that all fieldwork must be completed prior to April 2004, when construction works are scheduled to commence. On this basis we propose the following 2-phase timescale.

Phase 1 – December 2003

• Evaluation of site 28, with any consequent excavation works either prior to Christmas or early in January 2004. • It is anticipated that the evaluation fieldwork will be conducted by two staff over two days.

Phase 2 – February / March 2004

• Remainder of fieldwork, including any necessary follow-up excavations and recording. • It is anticipated that the evaluation fieldwork will be conducted by four staff over 10 days.

6.6 The work will be scheduled to take account of the prevailing weather conditions, and we will aim to provide the Archaeology Unit of one week’s written notice to commence works, although this may be require to be revised if weather conditions change.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 70 of 79 CFA APPENDIX 7 - Further archaeological excavation, scope of works

Site 3 - Lubmore

15 person days for fieldwork (includes travel time)

Structure A The building has been fully stripped of turf and topsoil, and measures c.9m by 3m. There are at least two phases of floor visible at present. It is intended to establish through further excavation and recording whether anything remains of the original 19th century floor of the structure, and to determine its function, or changing function, over time.

• Detailed plan of building required. • Remove cobbles at east end of building to reveal flagstones beneath. • Remove latest phase of flagstones in the centre of the building, revealing those beneath. • Plan. • Remove sample sections by hand of revealed floor to determine whether any further floors or deposits survive beneath. Remove further sections by machine as appropriate. • All artefacts to be retained for analysis.

Trench 2 A circular platform was discovered, sitting on top of a rectangular cobbled surface defined by kerb stones. Possible paving lies to its south, and a cut was found to its east. Further excavation and recording is required to establish the full extent and character of these features.

• Extend trench to encompass full extent of the features. • Plan. • Remove latest structure to reveal character of earlier structure. • Plan. • All artefacts to be retained for analysis.

Area of rubble and boulders to east of Structure A

• Machine trench to determine whether this is structural or represents debris from the demolition of the building. It is known from a local source that the building was demolished in the 1960s.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 71 of 79 CFA Site 27 – Glen Docherty

Up to 30 person days for fieldwork (includes travel time)

Test-pitting has determined the extent of the bloomery mound and slag spreads. It lies on a small flat terrace adjacent to a passing place on the south side of the road. The bloomery mound measures about 4m long by 2m wide by 1.5m high and lies at the back of the passing place. The road is likely to have been built on top of the rest of the mound. A spread of slag has been found running across the flat area. Further assessment is required to establish whether any structures associated with the bloomery survive, to establish the nature of the bloomery mound and to collect samples of bloomery material for analysis.

• All excavation will be conducted by hand, due to the thin turf and topsoil and the presence of slag immediately beneath the turf in a number of the test-pits. • The bloomery mound will be de-turfed by hand, covering an area of c. 5m by 3m. • Excavation of the bloomery mound will follow, to establish the nature of the mound and determine whether any features such as a hearth or furnace are contained within it, and to collect samples. • An area around the bloomery mound on the flat terrace will be de-turfed by hand, measuring c.10m by 5m. This will allow any spatial patterning of activities across the site or variations in the nature of the industrial residues to be identified. Subsequently, slot trenches will be excavated to characterise features and to collect samples. • Sampling of deposits will be conducted to collect slag and other industrial residues for analysis, and charcoal for radiocarbon dating. If the survival of charcoal is poor then alternative scientific dating methods will be conducted, which may include thermoluminescence and archaeomagnetic dating.

More work may be required if complex deposits or features are found beneath the bloomery mound or within the surrounding area.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 72 of 79 CFA APPENDIX 8 - The Highland Council Archaeology Unit Specification

Brief for archaeological work at:

A832 Achnasheen - Lubmore, Achnasheen, Ross- shire (Planning App 03/00653/NIDRC)

HIGHLAND COUNCIL PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT SERVICE

A832/919/0/31/05/04 73 of 79 CFA Archaeology Unit

1) Background

A pre-determination evaluation has been undertaken of this road line (A832 Achnasheen to Lubmore). This has identified that should development be permitted to proceed, it will impact on archaeological remains. It has been determined on the basis of this report that archaeological remains are not of such significance that there should be an objection in principle on archaeological grounds. Rather, that development can proceed if further archaeological assessment/recording takes place once detailed development plans are available.

This brief specifies the broad parameters of what will be required archaeologically. This work could include

further field evaluation recording in advance of destruction of others watching brief during development (possible) marking sites to prevent damage providing an “on call” service for chance finds

As the scheme is brought forward an archaeological written scheme of investigation (WSI) should be submitted detailing the approaches to archaeological recording and protection. The WSI should follow these parameters and directly refer to this brief.

2) Terms of Reference

This brief has been produced for the applicants, who will be responsible for the work, including all tendering and contractual arrangements.

It sets out in detail who is responsible for what, as well as the terms of reference, objectives, method, monitoring and reporting arrangements. The approach set out below aims to establish as far as possible the nature and extent of any features of archaeological interest likely to be affected at the earliest possible stage so that they can be preserved or, if necessary, recorded before destruction.

The work should be carried out by, or under the immediate direction of, a member of the Institute of Field Archaeologists to ensure that work is carried out to professional standards. Where archaeological work fails to meet the standards set out here, the applicant will be in breach of any archaeological planning condition until matters are rectified. The Archaeology Unit may also refuse to accept work from, or otherwise take action against, Archaeological Contractors who fail to carry out work to these standards.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 74 of 79 CFA The area to be covered will include the full development area and includes any proposed ancillary works such as landscaping, drains, work compounds, borrow pits etc unless otherwise indicated.

The brief is based on details supplied at the time it was issued. It is valid for six months from the date of issue. An updated version can be provided if needed on request.

Before site works start, proposed arrangements, including a timetable for the work should be agreed with the Senior Archaeologist, Highland Council in writing.

3) Objectives

To identify the location, nature and extent of any features or objects of archaeological significance that would be damaged or destroyed by the proposed development.

To propose arrangements for the safeguarding where possible, and recording where necessary, of archaeological features or finds identified. These arrangements will need to be agreed by the Senior Archaeologist, Highland Council.

To make sure that the needs for archaeological conservation and recording are met without causing any unnecessary delay or disturbance to the development project.

4) Site Specific Requirements

The archaeological evaluation undertaken for this site has identified certain areas where archaeological features can be expected and will need recording prior to destruction. It is also possible that further information on the survival of features/finds may become available during the earlier phases of development that will have implications for the scale/extent of recording during later phases of development.

This specification covers any pre-development archaeological evaluation and recording and recording work during development.

5) Method

a) Desk-based Assessment The Archaeological Contractor will carry out a review as to whether the previous desk based assessment needs updating. If it is deemed necessary this shall be undertaken. They will check relevant archaeological records, documentary and cartographic sources and aerial photographs to provide background information. This must be done to IFA guidelines. At least the following sources must be reviewed:

• The Highland Council Sites and Monuments Record (SMR) (Inverness) • The National Monuments Record for Scotland

b) Field recording before and during construction The Archaeological Contractor will record any finds or features of significance before, or during, site ground-works, to professional standards.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 75 of 79 CFA Those carrying out site clearance and excavation works will need to work closely with the Archaeological Contractor and provide all necessary access and other arrangements. They may need to use differing work practices on site than usual to enable the Archaeological Contractor to undertake the required work. For example,

¾ Where excavating machinery is used, a straight-edged bucket must be used on a back acting machine. Care will need to be taken to avoid over excavation, and the advice of the Archaeological Contractor on-site should be adhered to on this. ¾ Archaeologists may need to get quickly into recently cleared areas and this may mean that drivers of excavators may sometimes need to wait briefly, or switch to working other areas. ¾ Each excavating machine needs to be watched by at least one archaeologist at all times (1:1 ratio). Work should not begin on site until this cover has been set up. ¾ Because the archaeologist must be able to record any archaeological remains encountered during the work to professional standards, site clearance works may take slightly longer than normal. This should be allowed for in the development project timetable. Occasionally, more extensive excavation may be needed to record features since there will be very limited opportunities to preserve them in situ. If discoveries are made that would cause significant delays, see paragraph 5 below.

c) Report The Archaeological Contractor will produce a report setting out the results of the work (see below).

6) Monitoring

Highland Council Archaeology Unit will monitor projects as necessary to ensure that minimum standards are met. Unless it is agreed otherwise, it will be assumed that the Archaeological Contractor will be responsible for agreeing monitoring arrangements and other professional matters with Archaeology Unit staff.

Prior notice of fieldwork starting dates, with contact names and local addresses, telephone numbers and directions and other arrangements for access must be given to the Archaeology Unit by the Archaeological Contractor.

Any unexpectedly significant or complex discoveries or other unexpected occurrences must be notified immediately to the Council's Senior Archaeologist. The finds or features must be left until arrangements have been agreed for safeguarding or recording them. In the meantime work may continue on other areas of the site.

7) Reporting

a) Project report

The Archaeological Contractor appointed is responsible for producing a report on the work, and for making sure copies have been received by the recipients listed below. The Archaeological Contractor appointed should allow for all publication costs when estimating for the work. We require archaeologists to submit satisfactory reports within the agreed deadline.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 76 of 79 CFA Apart from any copies required by the client, at least five copies of the project report must be produced by the archaeologist. These must be submitted to all of the following within 6 weeks of the completion of the field work:

¾ One paper copy for the Mr John Greaves, Planning and Development Department, Highland Council, Glenurquhart Rd, Inverness, IV3 5NX ¾ One paper copy to be deposited with the Council's Senior Librarian Information Co-ordinator, Libraries Support Unit, 31a Harbour Road, Inverness IV1 1UA. This will be available for public consultation through the public library service. ¾ One paper copy to be deposited with the Council's Assistant Curator (Archaeology), Museum & Art Gallery, Castle Wynd, Inverness IV2 3EB ¾ Two copies for the Archaeology Unit, Planning and Development Service, Council Offices, Glenurquhart Road, Inverness IV3 5NX : • One paper copy • One copy of the complete report in Adobe Acrobat format (ie a pdf file), on a computer disc or CDROM. (Please do not rely on email! Also ensure that all drawings and photographs are included.)

The report must be to IFA standards and be suitable for use as a record of the work by archaeologists and the wider public. It must include the following:

¾ Title page - setting out the author, the names of those who carried out work on site, project design number and/or planning application number, and the date the report was completed. ¾ Illustrations – labelled maps and plans, to include at least a general location map, the boundary of the development, the area of the fieldwork, and the location of any features identified. Labelled photographs and drawings of all archaeological features noted, cross referenced to the text, and clearly located on an overall site plan. All plans and drawings must be drawn to scale and labelled clearly with a bar scale and north point. Scales for site plans and elevations should be agreed in advance with the Council's Archaeology Unit. ¾ Introduction – the circumstances, objectives, location and basic archaeological implications of the development and for whom, and by whom the work was carried out. There should be a note of weather and other conditions affecting fieldwork; and dates should be included to indicate when each element of the work was undertaken. Grid references to locate the site must be included. ¾ Archaeological background – basic information about the site (a description of size, geology, topography and location) as well as other known sites in the area and previous work. This information should be collated, presented and discussed in a single section of the report. ¾ Methodology – the methodology adopted, including any sampling and finds retention strategies. Any variation to the agreed project design/specification must be noted and justified. Sources for desk-based work must be fully described or listed, with a clear indication of what has been checked and what has not. ¾ Results – a full assessment of what was recorded on site against what might be expected to be there; or if nothing has been identified, possible reasons why the work produced a negative result. Note that a negative result may itself be significant. Descriptive material and interpretative statements must be separated. Results should be set out as a series of summary statements, organised clearly in relation to the methods used, and describing structural data, associated finds and environmental data. A brief analysis of the project results is also required, drawing in comparative data as appropriate. ¾ Conclusions and Recommendations - There should be a section that sums up and interprets the results and puts them into context. It should assess the significance of the results for future research, and any implications for the survival or otherwise of archaeological features nearby. Recommendations should be included as appropriate for follow up fieldwork, conservation management, recommended responses to possible future development proposals on adjoining sites, as well as for spin-off academic research and/or publication. All recommendations (including ‘no recommendations’) should be justified. Finally

A832/919/0/31/05/04 77 of 79 CFA there should be a note of where results are to be published ( for example, DES, academic journals etc) ¾ Appendices – These should include • A full index to any records or other material generated by the project • Lists of samples and context descriptions • A list of finds, set out in the required format for Treasure Trove reporting. Copies of the necessary forms are obtainable if required from the Council's Assistant Curator (Archaeology), Museum & Art Gallery, Castle Wynd, Inverness IV2 3EB. • A set of colour slides or good quality digital images illustrating the project progress from start to completion. • A copy of this specification, or any alternative to it that was agreed previously with us.

b) Presentation

Where significant archaeological remains have been found, the Archaeological Contractor must arrange a presentation of the project results to the local community within a year of the completion of the fieldwork. Arrangements must be agreed with the Senior Archaeologist.

c) Publication

The Archaeological Contractor is responsible for sending a brief summary of the results to the Council for Scottish Archaeology for inclusion in Discovery and Excavation in Scotland. Any associated costs must be allowed for in estimating for the work.

The Archaeological Contractor will submit written details of proposals for final publication of more significant results. (This will be in addition to project designs and costings prepared for the client).

d) Copyright

Reports should include a copyright statement. The Highland Council will assume author’s copyright in archaeological reports unless advised otherwise, and will acknowledge copyright in all cases. However it reserves the right to make the report available either on paper, or electronically (including publication on the World Wide Web) for non-commercial purposes within the terms of EU Directive 2001/29/EC Article 5 (paragraphs 2-3). Reports received will be made available for immediate public consultation for research purposes at the Highland Council Sites and Monuments Record, and through the public library service.

8) General

The Archaeological Contractor agrees by undertaking this work to meet the terms of this brief and to:

¾ carry out the work according to the Code of Conduct, standards and guidelines of the Institute of Field Archaeologists. ¾ agree a timetable for the work with the client and the Senior Archaeologist. ¾ not comment to the press or other media without agreement with the client and prior notification to the Senior Archaeologist. ¾ fully allow for prevailing weather conditions in northern Scotland.

This brief has been produced by the Highland Council's Archaeology Unit, to whom any enquiries should be addressed. No one else has authority to vary its terms.

A832/919/0/31/05/04 78 of 79 CFA APPENDIX 9 - Schedule of works produced by the Archaeology Unit

Achnasheen to Kinlochewe Phase 2. Advance Archaeological Works

Note reference numbers are those contained in the CFA report 661, dated July 2001. REF. No. FEATURE ACTION REQUIRED COMMENTS 1. Quarry. No action required. Remote from working area. 12. Cairn (possible) Evaluation trench. May be affected by burn diversion, if feature is significant, burn diversion will be routed away from feature. 2. Field clearance. No action required. 11. Old road Evaluation trench. Feature destroyed by construction alignment. works. 3. Settlement Mitigation as detailed in ES. (Lubmore) page 117, para. 16.55. 4. Quarry. No action required. 10. Enclosure Evaluation trench, if significant Feature may be destroyed by culvert (sheiling). then to be excavated out. construction works. 6. Old road. No action required. Remote from working area. 7. Old road. No action required. Remote from working area. 8. Quarry. Acceptable to infill. 9. Quarry. Acceptable to infill. 14. Quarry. Acceptable to infill. 15. Old road. Mitigation as detailed in ES. page 117, para. 16.55. 17. Quarry. Acceptable to infill. 16. Old road. No action required. Remote from working area. 13. Enclosures. Protective fencing to be included Feature in close proximity to in Contract. working area. Get CFA to peg features on site. 19. Quarry. Acceptable to infill. 20. Quarry. No action required. 22. Quarry. No action required. Remote from working area. 23. Structure. Protective fencing to be included Feature in close proximity to in Contract. working area 24. Old Survey and sectional analysis. road/quarries 25. Structure. No action required. Remote from working area. 26. Quarry. No action required. 27. Iron working Trial pitting/trenches, excavate To try and locate and evaluate site. as necessary. feature. 28. Structure Evaluation trench. May be lost by burn diversion. (possible) 31. Quarry. No action required. 30. Enclosure. No action required. Remote from working area. 32. Old road. No action required. Remote from working area. 29. Quarry. No action required. 33. Quarry. Acceptable to infill. 34. Quarry. Acceptable to infill. 35. Quarry. Acceptable to infill. 46. Sheiling. Excavation/evaluation. Lost to the works so excavate out if significant 48. Sheiling. Protective fencing to be included Feature in close proximity to in Contract. working area

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