Appendix D: Archaeological Written Scheme of Investigation
Stalybridge - Woodhead (4ZO) OHL
Written Scheme of Investigation
Submitted to:
Energy Alliance
Submitted by:
AMEC Environment and Infrastructure UK Limited
Shrewsbury, UK
AMEC Project: 32430
October 2013
17 October 2013
AMEC Ref No: 32430n037i1
Dear Sir/Madam
Re: Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL
Please find enclosed the Archaeological Written Scheme of Investigation which sets out procedures and standards for archaeological work to be carried out in mitigation of potential effects on the historic environment arising from the scheme.
If you have any questions regarding the project please contact the undersigned.
Yours sincerely
Robert Johns (Reviewer) Senior Consultant AMEC Environment & Infrastructure UK Ltd Canon Court Abbey Lawn Abbey Foregate Shrewsbury SY2 5DE
Tel: +44 (0)1743 342029
Author:
John Mabbitt Senior Consultant AMEC Environment & Infrastructure UK Ltd Partnership House Regent Farm Road Gosforth Newcastle upon Tyne NE3 3AF
Tel: +44 (0)191 2726254
Energy Alliance Repair Works October 2013 AMEC Project 32430
REPORT ISSUE FORM
Client Name Electricity Alliance
Project Name Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL
Report Title Level 1 Archaeological and Cultural Heritage Appraisal
Document Status & Draft For Comment Issue No. 1 Issue No.
Issue Date 17 October 2013
Author John Mabbitt 11 October 2013
Reviewer Rob Johns 17 October 2013
Programme Manager Approval Hilary Valler
Copyright and Non-Disclosure Notice The contents and layout of this report are subject to copyright owned by AMEC (©AMEC Environment & Infrastructure UK Limited 2013) save to the extent that copyright has been legally assigned by us to another party or is used by AMEC under licence. To the extent that we own the copyright in this report, it may not be copied or used without our prior written agreement for any purpose other than the purpose indicated in this report. The methodology (if any) contained in this report is provided to you in confidence and must not be disclosed or copied to third parties without the prior written agreement of AMEC. Disclosure of that information may constitute an actionable breach of confidence or may otherwise prejudice our commercial interests. Any third party who obtains access to this report by any means will, in any event, be subject to the Third Party Disclaimer set out below.
Third Party Disclaimer Any disclosure of this report to a third party is subject to this disclaimer. The report was prepared by AMEC at the instruction of, and for use by, our client named on the front of the report. It does not in any way constitute advice to any third party who is able to access it by any means. AMEC excludes to the fullest extent lawfully permitted all liability whatsoever for any loss or damage howsoever arising from reliance on the contents of this report. We do not however exclude our liability (if any) for personal injury or death resulting from our negligence, for fraud or any other matter in relation to which we cannot legally exclude liability.
Written Scheme of Investigation Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL ii Energy Alliance Repair Works October 2013 AMEC Project 32430
NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY
This report sets out the procedures and standards for proposed archaeological monitoring and recording of construction work in mitigation of potential disturbance of archaeological deposits and material arising from EAWs proposed scheme (EAW No. 20594) for the potential repair of the existing overhead electricity line (OHL) between towers 4ZO250 and 4ZO200.
This report sets out the scheme description (Section 1), the aims and objectives of the archaeological work (Section 2), and summarises the archaeological and historical context of the area (Section 3) before setting out detailed procedures and standards for the archaeological fieldwork (Sections 4-6) and reporting (Section 7). Issues of health and safety management are considered at Section 8.
The archaeological mitigation proposed comprises archaeological monitoring (watching brief) of intrusive groundworks at the identified work locations with provision to step the intervention up to strip and record investigation where areas of more complex archaeological deposits and features are observed. At the conclusion of the works, a report will be prepared which summarises the results of the archaeological works and sets out proposals for further analysis and dissemination if these are considered appropriate.
Written Scheme of Investigation Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL iii Energy Alliance Repair Works October 2013 AMEC Project 32430
Written Scheme of Investigation Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL iv Energy Alliance Repair Works October 2013 AMEC Project 32430
CONTENTS
1. The Project 1
2. Archaeological and Historical Background 1 2.1 Geology and Historic Landscape Character 1 2.2 Archaeology and History 2
3. Archaeological Response 4 3.1 Aims and Objectives 4 3.2 Work Locations 5
4. Standards for Archaeological Monitoring of Intrusive Groundwork 7 4.1 General Standards 7 4.2 Archaeological Monitoring 7 4.3 Recording 7
5. Standards for Strip and Record Investigation 8 5.1 General Principles 8
6. General Standards 8 6.1 General Methods 8 6.2 Sample Excavation 9 6.3 Recording 10 6.4 Environmental Sampling 11 6.5 Artefact Recovery 12 6.6 Scientific Dating 13 6.7 Human Remains 13
7. Post-excavation Analysis, Reporting and Archiving 13 7.1 Finds 13 7.2 Post-Excavation Reporting 14 7.3 Site Archive 15 7.4 OASIS 15 7.5 Further analysis and Dissemination 15
8. Health and Safety 15
9. References 16
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: Summary Mitigation Table (see Appendix 2: Summary of Mitigation Options) 5
Written Scheme of Investigation Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL v Energy Alliance Repair Works October 2013 AMEC Project 32430
APPENDICES
Appendix 1: Legislation and Guidance Appendix 2: Summary of mitigation Proposals Appendix 3: Archaeological Constraints mapping
Written Scheme of Investigation Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL vi Energy Alliance Repair Works October 2013 AMEC Project 32430
1. THE PROJECT
AMEC Environment and Infrastructure UK Ltd (AMEC E&I) have produced this archaeological written scheme of investigation (WSI) on behalf of Electricity Alliance West (EAW, now Energy Alliance). This WSI draws on the detailed Level 1 and Level 2 assessment reports which considered a study area of 500m from the OHL (AMEC 2013) and subsequent consultation with the archaeological advisors to Tameside, Derbyshire County Council and the Peak District National Park Authority.
EAW propose to undertake repairs to an existing overhead electricity line (OHL) between towers 4ZO250 and 4ZO200, from the Millbrook Area of Stalybridge to the entrance of the Woodhead Tunnel in Derbyshire (EAW Scheme No. 20594). The total length of the line is almost 16km, running in an approximate west to east direction from NGR 397541 399754 (4ZO250) to NGR 411149 399867 (4ZO200). Approximately one third of the route lies in the metropolitan borough of Tameside, Greater Manchester, with the remainder in Derbyshire High Peak District.
The proposed scheme of repair works comprises maintenance works and as such can normally be undertaken without the need for a specific grant of planning permission. However, there are still legal obligations to statutorily protected sites (such as Scheduled Monuments and Listed Buildings) and a statutory duty under Section 38 and Schedule 9 of the Electricity Act 1989 to have regard to the desirability of protecting buildings and other objects of architectural, historical or archaeological interest. The WSI sets out an appropriate scheme of archaeological mitigation of the potential effects of the refurbishment of the existing 4ZO Stalybridge - Woodhead Overhead Electricity Line (OHL) to comply with these statutory obligations.
2. ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
2.1 Geology and Historic Landscape Character
High ground to the north and south of the 4ZO OHL route is formed by gritstone (a coarse sandstone) overlying softer mudstones (shales), sedimentary rocks deposited in the Carboniferous Period (around 326 316 million years ago) (Peak District National Park Authority - PDNPA, undated). The Longdendale Valley is glacial in origin; the melting ice finding a path of lesser resistance through the softer shale.
Historic Landscape Characterisation projects (HLC) carried out for Greater Manchester Urban, Derbyshire and PDNPA characterise the Stalybridge end of the 4ZO line as post- medieval to 19 th -century piecemeal enclosure, remnants of a more extensive enclosed landscape which has been encroached upon by the developing town. Outside Stalybridge, the fields exhibit similar, though probably earlier piecemeal enclosure. Further west, the route passes through woodland, and moorland identified. To the east of the Swineshaw reservoirs, the land exhibits post-medieval piecemeal enclosure, some of which has been abandoned and is now regenerated moorland.
Written Scheme of Investigation Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL 1 Energy Alliance Repair Works October 2013 AMEC Project 32430
South of the Longdendale Chain, land is recorded as irregular enclosure before 1840, and south of the Woodhead Reservoir, the route passes into moorland, recorded in the HLC assessment as open wastes and common, some of which has been enclosed in large irregular enclosures, mostly after 1881.
2.2 Archaeology and History
2.2.1 Prehistoric Period
There is no recorded material from the Lower and Middle Palaeolithic within the North West of England, and very limited evidence for Late Upper Palaeolithic activity. There are no recorded remains of this date from the study area.
There is considerable evidence for human activity in the region during the Mesolithic from recorded lithic (worked stone) findspots and scatters, suggesting hunter-gather activity on the moorland. Palaeoenvironmental evidence suggests clearance of woodland from the moorland at this date. Finds within the study area include Mesolithic flint working sites on Brushes Moor and Harridge Pike. Unpublished work undertaken recently on moorland to the north-east of the 4ZO OHL, has resulted in finds of Mesolithic flint on Arnfield Flats and Tintwistle Moor (Sarah Whitely, PDNPA pers comm. 13 September 13). Chance finds of further lithic material has led to further investigation of lithic-working sites on Brushes Moor (38, 39) and Boar Flat (50).
The Neolithic period saw increasing forest clearance and the development of more settled farming communities, whilst in parts of the North West hunting and gathering may have continued to be of importance in this area, given the geography, although there is no evidence of this period within the study area. There is evidence of a Bronze Age burial site on Shire Hill near Old Glossop (outside the study area), although within the study area records of this period are limited to findspots of worked flint; even then, these are mostly given a general ‘prehistoric’ label, with specific artefact types of Neolithic/Early Bronze Age typology.
2.2.2 Iron Age (700 BC – AD 43) and Romano-British (AD 43 – AD 450)
There is a single record specifically relating to Iron Age activity within the study area, attributed to a hillfort identified during a trial trench evaluation at Staley Hall (14), this appears to relate to earthworks subsequently dated to the medieval period (below). However, despite the lack of recorded sites of this date within the study area, environmental evidence suggests that the moorland in Dark Peak was extensively cleared for agriculture at this time and settlement sites most likely exist.
The recorded route of the Roman road into the Etherow valley, known as Doctor Gate (74), passes within 40m of Tower 4ZO248, at near right angles to the access route. No remains of the road have been identified in this area, and none were noted in the FRS. There are few records of Roman activity within the study area, but these include a metal-working site, excavated in 1992 (36). This HER suggests that a further Roman road ran between Werneth Low and Castleshaw (711a), (Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council 1992), but there appears little evidential basis for this being a Roman road.
Written Scheme of Investigation Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL 2 Energy Alliance Repair Works October 2013 AMEC Project 32430
2.2.3 Early medieval (AD 450 – AD 1066) and medieval (AD1066 – 1540)
Many place names of the area, such as Mottram and Glossop date from the early medieval period, and several places, including Tintwistle, are recorded in the Domesday Book (1086) at which time much of the northern Peak, including the Longdendale Valley, is described as a ‘waste’. Medieval settlement within the area comprised villages, such as the deserted medieval settlement at Arnfield, which survives as well-defined earthwork platforms around slight hollow lanes (56). The current trackway (byway) proposed for the access route to the OHL may well be the/an original access route to the village. The Green (32), site of the present Sun Green Farm (26) and Lower Hyde Green Farm (27), is thought to be in origin a medieval settlement associated with assarting (woodland clearance) and the clearance of lower-lying moorland.
The present Staley Hall is believed to be on the site of an earlier, 14 th -century hall, although the earliest building recorded during an evaluation of the site (6) was contemporary with the timber framed hall of 1556. However, the evaluation identified counter-scarp ditches (6), which recorded radiocarbon dates of between 1280 and 1410 AD and appear to be shown on a 16 th -century map. These appear to be the elements identified as part of the ‘hill fort’ noted above.
Names such as Salter’s Brook attest to the continuing importance of the Etherow Valley as a packhorse route for the export of salt from the Cheshire towns of Nantwich, Northwich and Middlewich.
2.2.4 Post-medieval (AD 1540 – 1900)
Settlement within the study area, including most of the present farmsteads, is mostly attributed a Post-medieval date and built remains or the sites thereof, including industrial features, make up the bulk of recorded sites. Standing buildings tend to date to the later part of the period but some much-altered buildings as early as 16 th -century date survive. A number of buildings within the study area date to the 18th and 19th centuries, some of which are listed, such as the late 18th century Sun Green Farmhouse (26).
Enclosure of lower-lying areas of moorland continued in the Post-medieval period, and this is when the current pattern of fields was established, with grazing continuing on the moor above. Some Post-medieval enclosure has since been abandoned and is now regenerated moorland, probably following compulsory purchase associated with the construction of the reservoirs (towers 4ZO235-7).
The present Staley Hall at the western end of the OHL, which is listed Grade II* (9) was built in the 16th century by the Staley family, with the timber-framed hall being constructed in 1556 and stone-clad in c. 1600. An evaluation in 2003 (14) revealed the foundations of related buildings and yard surfaces (12). The site has now been developed for residential use.
The River Etherow historically formed the ancient county boundary between Cheshire and Derbyshire. However, when the metropolitan county of Manchester was formed from the urban areas of Cheshire, Tintwistle would have become an exclave and therefore since 1974 land to the north of the river has been part of the High Peak District of Derbyshire.
Written Scheme of Investigation Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL 3 Energy Alliance Repair Works October 2013 AMEC Project 32430
Water was an important source of power for industry, and watermills were used to grind grain, to full woollen cloth, process cotton and later to mill paper. At one time there were 112 cotton mills in the Longdendale area, 56 of them around Glossop (Peak District National Park Authority, Factsheet 17). Wool was transported along the Manchester to Salter’s Brook turnpike road (60) to Sheffield, to be woven on hand-looms in the dale (Scott, Smith and Winterbottom, 1973).
The development of the steam engine and need for transport of both goods and people led to the construction of various railways within the study area, notably the Woodhead Railway (79), the first rail link between Manchester and Sheffield. The line, originally the Sheffield, Ashton-under-Lyne & Manchester Railway Company's Woodhead Branch line (referred to as the ‘Woodhead Railway’), was built between 1836 and 1845 and followed the River Etherow from Hadfield to the Woodhead Tunnel portal (102) at the eastern end of the study area. Three tunnels (101) of 4,840 metres (15,880 ft) were then dug to connect Woodhead with Dunford Bridge.
The rising population of Manchester led John Frederick Bateman to conceive the scheme for the Longdendale Chain of reservoirs in 1844. The six-mile chain of reservoirs to impound drinking water, and provide compensation water for the cotton mills downstream was the first scheme of its type in the world (Quayle, 2006). The Woodhead Reservoir was completed between 1848 and 1865 with work undertaken at the same time on Torside (1849-1869) and Rhodeswood Reservoirs (1849-1852). The compensation reservoirs, Valehouse Reservoir and Bottoms Reservoir were completed a little later, between 1865 and 1877. Hollingworth and Arnfield reservoirs, outside the main scheme, were constructed during the same period, also to compensate industry. The route of the 4ZO OHL crosses Bottoms Reservoir and runs along the south of the reservoir chain to the Woodhead Tunnel portal.
2.2.5 Modern (post 1900)
Records of modern features in the HERs tend to be those built and industrial features originally conceived in the Post-medieval period which continued in use, including farmsteads, mills and railways. There has been relatively little modern development within the study area and there are no recorded built vestiges associated with the world wars.
The Woodhead Railway was closed in 1984 and this and other railways in the Londendale Valley have mostly been dismantled. Much of the route of the railway is now used for the Longdendale Trail (Trans-Pennine Trail). Though now closed to railway traffic, one of the tunnels is used to route electricity cables for the National Grid. Various proposals have been put forward for the re-opening of the tunnel to both freight and passenger trains, although there are no firm plans.
3. ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESPONSE
3.1 Aims and Objectives
The aim of the project is to further understanding of the evidence for past human exploitation and occupation of the area crossed by the route. The objectives of the project are:
Written Scheme of Investigation Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL 4 Energy Alliance Repair Works October 2013 AMEC Project 32430
• To ascertain the presence or absence of archaeological deposits and material within the working area;
• To make an appropriate record of such deposts and material; and
• To appropriately disseminate the results of the archaeological works.
In fulfilling these aims and objectives, the archaeological works will comprise appropriate mitigation for the anticipated effects of the scheme.
3.2 Work Locations
The Level 1 and 2 reports identified a number of locations where archaeological intervention was considered appropriate. These are identified at Table 1 below. Archaeological Constraints Maps are appended at Appendix 3.
Table 1: Summary Mitigation Table (see Appendix 2: Summary of Mitigation Options)
Tower Access Tower Constraint Mitigation Map No. No. Route
ALL TOWERS AND ACCESS ROUTES Adhere to tower access All (4ZO Line) routes
Tower in close proximity to Staley Hall, Grade II* Listed Building ( 9): Restored 16 th Preparation of century hall, built on the site of a Archaeological Constraint 14 th century hall ( 7). Previous Map. archaeological investigation ( 8, 4ZO250 Y Y Archaeological watching 1 14 ) has identified further brief is recommended in medieval and post-medieval the event of any intrusive buried archaeological remains in groundworks. the vicinity of the hall ( 6). No intrusive works planned.
Access to tower over the projected route of Doctor Gate Preparation of Roman road ( 74 ), although no Archaeological Constraint proven remains in this location. Map. 4ZO248 N Y Church of St James, Grade II Archaeological watching 2 Listed Building ( 22 ), in relatively brief is recommended in close proximity. the event of any intrusive No intrusive works planned on groundworks. projected route of Roman road.
Preparation of Archaeological Constraint As above, access from potential Map. 4ZO246 N Y route of the Werneth Low to Archaeological watching 3 Castleshaw Roman road ( 70 ). brief is recommended in the event of any intrusive groundworks.
Written Scheme of Investigation Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL 5 Energy Alliance Repair Works October 2013 AMEC Project 32430
Tower Access Tower Constraint Mitigation Map No. No. Route
Access to tower passes in close proximity to excavated site of Preparation of Romano-British metal-working Archaeological Constraint site ( 35, 36 ) and potential route Map. of the Werneth Low to 4ZO245 N Y Castleshaw Roman road ( 70 ), Archaeological watching 4 the latter on the same route as brief is recommended in the access to towers 4ZO245/6. the event of any intrusive groundworks. New stone access road and stone crane pad planned.
Preparation of Tower/access located in close Archaeological Constraint proximity (c. 30m) to known Map. Mesolithic flint-working site 4ZO244 Y Y 5 (40-43 inc.). Archaeological watching Upgraded stone access road brief is recommended in and stone pad required. the event of any intrusive groundworks.
No archaeological constraints Preparation of 4ZO243 currently identified although Archaeological Constraint 4ZO242 towers located in moorland with Map. 4ZO241 a general potential for 6-12 4ZO240 Y Y prehistoric remains, particularly Archaeological watching inclusive 4ZO239 flint findspots. brief is recommended in 4ZO238 Upgraded stone access road the event of any intrusive 4ZO237 and stone pads required. groundworks.
Preparation of Archaeological Constraint Tower/access in close proximity Map. to earthworks of Arnfield 4ZO233 Y Y 13 deserted medieval village (56). Archaeological watching No intrusive works planned. brief is recommended in the event of any intrusive groundworks.
Preparation of Access route uses the trackbed Archaeological Constraint of former sidings to the Map. Woodhead Railway (96), where 4ZO201 Y Y 14 sleepers evident during FRS. Archaeological watching Upgraded stone access road brief is recommended in required. the event of any intrusive groundworks.
No towers or access routes identified
(4ZO Line)
Written Scheme of Investigation Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL 6 Energy Alliance Repair Works October 2013 AMEC Project 32430
4. STANDARDS FOR ARCHAEOLOGICAL MONITORING OF INTRUSIVE GROUNDWORK
4.1 General Standards
The purpose of archaeological monitoring is, in accordance with the research aims stated at 2.1 above, to ensure that any archaeological features present within the working area are identified and can be appropriately recorded or that the absence of such features can be robustly demonstrated.
4.2 Archaeological Monitoring
It is anticipated that an archaeologist will be present throughout intrusive groundworks in areas of identified archaeological potential.
Where the presence of archaeological remains has been established, and where safe to do so, selected faces of any exposed section will be cleaned with appropriate hand tools, to a degree sufficient to facilitate recording. Where archaeological deposits are encountered, sufficient excavation will take place to allow appropriate records to be compiled, in accordance with the standards and guidelines set out in Section 6 below, as might be reasonably achieved, taking into account relevant health and safety considerations and within reasonable access terms agreed with the main ground works contractor.
Machine excavations will be entered only on agreement with the main construction contractor and only within the maximum safe depth 1, in order to examine the stratigraphy in exposed sections. After excavation has progressed beyond this depth, recording will take place without entering the trench unless adequate safety measures have been agreed with a competent person.
Where archaeological deposits are encountered that cannot be appropriately investigated within the scope of a watching brief, archaeological works will proceed according to the methodology for strip and record mitigation set out at Section 5. The extent of the area to be investigated as a strip and record will be demarcated and construction activity in that area will cease until such time as the area has been fully investigated.
4.3 Recording
The works subject to observation will be accurately related to the Ordnance Survey grid and located on an appropriately scaled map of the area. All archaeological deposits and features, representative levels for the current ground surface and base of the intervention will be recorded with an above ordnance datum (aOD) level, as reasonably practicable.
Where archaeological deposits are encountered, a full and proper record (written, graphic and photographic as appropriate) will be made for all work. Where archaeological deposits are not encountered representative sequence descriptions will be recorded and relevant locations shown on an accurate site plan.
1 No deep excavations are anticipated.
Written Scheme of Investigation Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL 7 Energy Alliance Repair Works October 2013 AMEC Project 32430
5. STANDARDS FOR STRIP AND RECORD INVESTIGATION
5.1 General Principles
Strip and record areas will be identified on site during the archaeological monitoring once it has been demonstrated that features of archaeological interest are present. Consultation will be undertaken with the appropriate LPA Archaeological Advisor on the extent of any strip and record area.
Following initial machine excavation, the area will be examined and a plan of identified and potential archaeological features and deposits prepared at an appropriate scale.
Key stages in strip and record are:
• The careful stripping of identified areas to the appropriate level, in order to reveal the identified archaeological features in plan;
• immediate planning (mapping) of the area; and
• investigation of an appropriate sample of identified features drawing on the standards set out in Section 6.
Following completion of archaeological investigation the relevant area will be released to the main contractor so that construction works may proceed. Consultation with the appropriate LPA Archaeological Advisor will be undertaken where possible within a timely manner and where necessary to allow construction works to continue, an area may be released in stages or partially. In this situation, areas which have not been released will be clearly demarcated.
6. GENERAL STANDARDS
6.1 General Methods
In all areas identified as requiring archaeological work in this WSI removal of topsoil, overburden and 19/20 th -century 2 and later remains will be undertaken using a mechanical excavator to the first significant archaeological horizon or to the maximum depth of excavation. This will normally be undertaken using a back-acting excavator or 360° tracked excavator fitted with a wide toothless (ditching) bucket, although ground conditions and the nature of the construction work being undertaken may dictate the use of a toothed bucket: in some areas as bedrock has been observed close to the surface and in other areas a narrow area may need to be excavated, such as may not adequately be achieved with a wide bucket. All machining in identified areas of archaeological constraint/potential will be undertaken under the continuous supervision of an experienced and competent archaeologist with the authority to halt and direct machine excavation. Spoil will be temporarily stockpiled on site at a safe distance from the trenches and other constraints, to the satisfaction of the main contractor.
2 Excepting 4ZO201, where any exposed remains of the former railway will be observed and recorded.
Written Scheme of Investigation Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL 8 Energy Alliance Repair Works October 2013 AMEC Project 32430
The first significant archaeological horizon and all subsequent archaeological deposits will be cleaned by hand where necessary to define archaeological features. Excavation of any archaeological deposits identified will proceed by hand unless specifically agreed with the appropriate LPA Archaeology Advisor.
The following professional standards apply:
• IfA 2008 Standard and Guidance for Archaeological Excavation;
• IfA 2008 Guidelines for the Collection, Documentation, Conservation and Research of Archaeological Materials ; and
• IfA 2012 Code of Conduct.
6.2 Sample Excavation
Features and deposits will be sectioned and recorded in plan. Archaeological features will be hand-cleaned prior to excavation to provide accurate definitions. For linear features such hand-cleaning will be targeted at sample excavation points. Deposits interpreted as natural subsoil should be tested by hand or machine excavation to determine the validity of this interpretation, within the extent of proposed intrusion.
The excavation will normally include as a minimum:
• A robust spatial framework of excavation to provide an understanding of the distribution of past activities across the investigation area including any ‘special’ deposits and any patterning in artefact distribution. Such a framework will take into account the inter-relationship of any major features.
• The investigation of the intersections of features of archaeological date to obtain a phasing of the site.
• Structural remains and other areas of significant and specific activity (domestic, industrial, religious, hearths, ‘special’/ patterned deposits etc) will be excavated and recorded to a degree whereby their extent, date form, function and relationship to other features and deposits can be established.
All burial deposits and associated remains will be fully excavated and recorded in accordance with an agreed methodology (see below).
Representative non-structural linear cut features will be sample excavated and recorded to establish their character, date and morphology and to provide information on activities taking place in close proximity to the feature. The junctions and intersections of linear features should be removed over a sufficient length to determine the nature of the relationship. All terminal ends will be investigated. Sections will normally be at least 1m wide.
Non-structural pits will be half-sectioned unless the character, number or size of the pits makes this unpractical.
Written Scheme of Investigation Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL 9 Energy Alliance Repair Works October 2013 AMEC Project 32430
Non-structural post and stake-holes will be half-sectioned sufficiently to clarify character, relationships and chronology.
The sampling excavation strategy will be reviewed during the course of fieldwork and, if necessary, amended in order to take account of changing circumstances and understanding. Any changes or amendments will be made in consultation with the appropriate LPA Archaeology Advisor.
6.3 Recording
A full and proper record (written, graphic and photographic as appropriate) will be made for all work. A continuous numbering system will be used and the following registers kept on standardised forms: context; section; plan; and photographs. Where no archaeological remains are encountered, individual context sheets may not be required and a ‘trench record’ will instead be maintained. Basic requirements are outlined below.
6.3.1 Geomatics
The excavation area will be accurately related to the National Grid and located on an Ordnance Survey map of the area at an appropriate scale not smaller than 1:2500. All archaeological deposits and features, representative levels for the current ground surface and base of the trench will be recorded with an aOD level.
6.3.2 Site Drawings
An overall plan of the individual sites shall be drawn at a scale of not less than 1:200 to show the location of the investigation areas in relation to existing features visible on the ground. Accurate scale plans and section drawings (both sections of features and representative trench sections) will be drawn at 1:50, 1:20 and/or 1:10 scales as appropriate. Where archaeological features are not observed or little variation in sequence is apparent, only representative sample sections will be recorded and the trench plan will be recorded in outline at a larger scale. Each plan and section will be located by reference to an established site grid and in elevation by levels aOD.
6.3.3 Stratigraphic Recording
All contexts will be given an individual number. A separate block of numbers will be allocated to each investigation area. Context descriptions, comprising both factual data and interpretative elements, will be recorded on standardised record sheets or trench record sheets (as at 6.3, above). Where stratified deposits are encountered a “Harris”-type matrix will be compiled during the course of the excavation.
Where archaeological deposits are not encountered representative sequence descriptions will be recorded and relevant locations shown on an accurate site plan.
6.3.4 Small Finds
While artefact finds will normally be recovered in bulk by context, within the intervention in which they are made, the specific location of artefact finds of particular interest, or ‘small finds’ will be recorded. Where the specific location of individual objects other than small finds
Written Scheme of Investigation Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL 10 Energy Alliance Repair Works October 2013 AMEC Project 32430 might provide useful interpretive data, their location will be recorded in three dimensions, either as coordinates or on a plan as appropriate.
6.3.5 Photography
The photographic record will normally be kept via digital photography using a 35mm digital SLR camera. This will be kept to illustrate the principal features and artefact finds both in detail and in a general context. The photographic record will also include working shots to represent more generally the nature of the fieldwork. Photographs should also be used to record interpretive data (e.g. groups of features and the relationships between them rather than individual features) and important artefacts in situ where possible. Other than ‘working’ shots they will as appropriate include clear metric scales and will be taken after the relevant features/areas have been appropriately exposed and cleaned.
6.4 Environmental Sampling
Provision will be made to take samples from any appropriate deposits, where there is a potential for the presence of palaeoenvironmental and technological evidence. All samples will be collected from the fills of cut features, and from any other securely stratified deposits that have the potential to provide environmental or economic information, such as occupation layers or material accumulating on use surfaces. Particular emphasis will be placed on contexts that may supply material suitable for scientific dating of potential early medieval and prehistoric features. Decisions on sampling must also take account of stratigraphic factors and consider the opportunity to employ chronological and spatial controls in the recovery of samples in order to generate environmental information of sufficient quality to meet the research objectives. Arrangements for the processing of bulk samples taken for the recovery of environmental materials will be confirmed.
Bulk samples will normally be 20-60 litres by volume where this is possible, or 100% of the fill of smaller discrete features. Advice will be sought from a suitable specialist in consultation with the LPA Archaeology Advisor, and a site visit may be made to agree a sampling strategy if necessary.
Provision will be made for column and other appropriate samples to be taken for geoarchaeological assessment and analysis as appropriate and in line with technical guidance. Due consideration will be given to the collection of samples suitable for microfossil analysis and other specialised analysis from suitable deposit sequences, that might inform the pattern of changing environmental conditions over time. Waterlogged and cess deposits will be specifically sampled for microfaunal and invertebrate analysis. Bulk samples will also be taken from any waterlogged deposits present for assessment of organic remains. Any organic artefacts that are retrieved during the excavation will be stored in appropriate conditions and assessed by a qualified archaeological conservator.
Industrial residues and waste from craft and manufacturing processes will also be routinely sampled.
Written Scheme of Investigation Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL 11 Energy Alliance Repair Works October 2013 AMEC Project 32430
6.5 Artefact Recovery
Bulk finds such as pottery and animal bone will normally be collected by context. Small finds will be recovered and located individually, as set out above (6.3.4). All artefacts from excavated contexts will be retained, except those from features or deposits of obviously modern date. In such circumstances, artefacts will be retained where appropriate to elucidate the date and/or function of the feature or deposit. Artefacts will also be recovered from excavated spoil, excepting those of clearly modern date. Where it is appropriate and following additional instruction, soil samples will be also be recovered for sieving, specifically for the purpose of:
• Providing statistically controlled samples; and
• Enhanced recovery techniques.
As set out in the general methods above, arrangements for the processing of bulk samples taken for the recovery of artefacts should be confirmed.
The recovery of artefactual material for dating purposes is a key requirement, although it is recognised that the incident of artefacts may limit the quality of datable assemblages, and measures for scientific dating are also set out below.
Artefact finds will be temporarily stored on site and removed from site to a secure location as required. All finds that are retained will be washed, marked and bagged in a manner suitable for long-term storage.
A sampling strategy for the recovery and recording of waterlogged wood and timber will be agreed with the appropriate LPA Archaeology Advisor where significant quantities of such materials are observed.
Any items deemed as treasure which are recovered will be subject to the provisions of the Treasure Act 1996 and the Treasure (Designation) Order 2002. Such material shall normally be removed from site to a secure location at the end of the working day on which it is found. In addition to the statutory authorities the relevant Portable Antiquities Officer should be informed.
All finds and samples will be exposed, lifted, cleaned, conserved, marked, bagged, boxed and stored in accordance with the IfA Guidelines for Finds Work, the guidelines in the UKIC Conservation Guidelines No. 2 and the requirements of the recipient museum.
A discard policy acceptable to the relevant receiving museum will only be implemented following quantification, assessment and recommendation from artefactual and environmental specialists. Certain classes of material, such as post-medieval pottery and building material, may be discarded after recording if a representative sample is kept, but no finds will be discarded without the prior approval of the appropriate LPA Archaeological Advisor and the receiving museum.
Written Scheme of Investigation Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL 12 Energy Alliance Repair Works October 2013 AMEC Project 32430
6.6 Scientific Dating
Samples of material suitable for scientific dating techniques including AMS C14 dating, archaeomagnetism (for example, charred seeds or in situ burnt clay from appropriate contexts) or thermoluminescence will be collected from deposits where such dating methods are commensurate with the apparent significance of the deposit/feature and/or where insufficient artefactual material is available.
6.7 Human Remains
It is not anticipated that human remains will be present within the site. In the event of human remains being encountered they will be left in situ, covered and protected and the Coroner, the appropriate LPA Archaeological Advisor and, where appropriate, the Police will be informed.
The archaeologist will arrange receipt of the appropriate documentation and license from the Department of Justice to enable the legal removal of any human remains encountered in the works. The Archaeological Contractor is to comply with the conditions of any issued License.
If removal is agreed, all subsequent work will comply with relevant regulations (including local authority environmental health regulations) and technical guidance.
An appropriately qualified and experienced osteo-archaeologist will be consulted where appropriate to supervise the excavation and removal of human remains from the site. Where appropriate, remains will be excavated and removed under the advice/supervision of a appropriately qualified and experienced archaeological conservator.
The potential for chemical analysis of bone and teeth to provide information on past human diet, health, migration and kinship, as well as the age of the skeletal material will be considered during the post-excavation stage.
7. POST-EXCAVATION ANALYSIS, REPORTING AND ARCHIVING
7.1 Finds
All finds processing, conservation work and storage of finds must be carried out in compliance with the IfA Guidelines for the collection, documentation, conservation and research of archaeological materials (2008) and those set by UKIC (1990).
The deposition and disposal of artefacts must be agreed with the legal owner and recipient museum prior to the work taking place. Where the landowner decides to retain artefacts, adequate provision must be made for recording them. Details of land ownership should be provided by the developer.
All retained artefacts must be cleaned and packaged in accordance with the requirements of the recipient museum.
Written Scheme of Investigation Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL 13 Energy Alliance Repair Works October 2013 AMEC Project 32430
7.2 Post-Excavation Reporting
A post-excavation assessment will be undertaken following the completion of fieldwork and submitted to the appropriate LPA Archaeology Advisor(s). The intention of this will be to provide a rapid summary of the material recovered during fieldwork, to allow decisions on whether further analysis and dissemination are necessary, and if so to allow costed recommendations to be made for any further work.
The post-excavation assessment is intended to be a summary document rather than a detailed record. As such, the level of reporting will provide sufficient detail to allow recommendations to be made and justified.
The document will comprise:
• Introduction
• Scope of the project
• Circumstances and dates of fieldwork and any previous work
• Comments on the organisation of the report
• Original research aims
• Summary of the documented history of the site(s)
• Interim statement on the results of fieldwork
• Summary of the site archive and any work carried out for assessment:
- Site records: quantity, work done on records during post-excavation assessment. - Finds: factual summary of material and records, quantity, range, variety, preservation, work done during post-excavation assessment. - Environmental material: factual summary of human and animal bone, shell and each type of sample (e.g. bulk organic, dendrochronological, monolith), quantity, range, variety, preservation, work done on the material during post- excavation assessment. - Documentary records: list of relevant sources discovered, quantity, variety, intensity of study of sources during post-excavation assessment. • Potential of the Data:
- An appraisal of the extent to which the site archive might enable the data to meet the research aims of the project. - A statement of the potential of the data in developing new research aims, to contribute to other projects and to advance methodologies. - A summary statement of the significance of the data recovered. Additional information will normally include:
Written Scheme of Investigation Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL 14 Energy Alliance Repair Works October 2013 AMEC Project 32430
• Supporting illustrations at appropriate scales.
• Sufficient supporting data, tabulated or in appendices, and/or details of the contents of the project archive, to permit the interrogation of the stated conclusions.
• Index, references and disclaimers.
7.3 Site Archive
Contact will be made with the landowners and the recipient museum to make the relevant arrangements.
The contractor will specify the receiving museum and confirm that arrangements for receipt of archaeological material and site archives have been agreed before the commencement of fieldwork.
The archive and the finds will be deposited in the appropriate local museum, within six months of completion of the post-excavation work and report.
7.4 OASIS
The overall aim of the OASIS (Online AccesS to the Index of archaeological investigationS), project is to provide an online index to the mass of archaeological grey literature that has been produced as a result of the advent of large scale developer funded fieldwork. The contractor will therefore complete the online OASIS form at http://ads.ahds.ac.uk/project/oasis/. Once a report has become a public document by submission to or incorporation into the appropriate Historic Environment Record (HER), the appropriate HER will validate the OASIS form thus placing the information into the public domain on the OASIS website.
7.5 Further analysis and Dissemination
It is intended that the results of the works as a whole will be reviewed and decisions taken on the need for, the scope and level of any further analysis and dissemination following the submission and review of the post-excavation assessment report.
8. HEALTH AND SAFETY
A conditional aspect of all archaeological work is both safe access to the area of work and a safe working environment. Health and Safety will take priority over all other requirements. All work will take place within the provisions of the NG Safety Rules, EAW method statements and Daily Risk Assessments. All relevant Health and Safety legislation, regulations and codes of practice should be respected and adhered to.
Written Scheme of Investigation Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL 15 Energy Alliance Repair Works October 2013 AMEC Project 32430
9. REFERENCES
Brennand M (ed.), 2008. The Archaeology of North West England, An Archaeological Research Framework for the North West Region: Volume 1 Resource Assessment.
Davies A, (no date). Long-term ecology in the Dark Peak: Palaeoenvironmental analyses from Bar Brook (Totley Moss), Emlin Dike (Bradfield Moors), Cranberry Bed (Upper Derwent) & Withens Moor (Glossop) .
English Heritage, 2008. Conservation Principles: Policy and Guidance for the Sustainable Management of the Historic Environment http://www.english- heritage.org.uk/server/show/nav.9181
IfA 2008 Standard and Guidance for Archaeological Excavation
IfA 2008 Guidelines for the Collection, Documentation, Conservation and Research of Archaeological Materials
IfA 2010 Code of Conduct
Jowett A, 1989. Jowett’s Railway Atlas of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
Peak District National Park Authority, (no date). Fact Sheet 17: Upper Longdendale Valley.
Quayle T, 2006. The Cotton Industry in Longdendale and Glossopdale , Stroud, Gloucestershire: Tempus, ISBN 0-7524-3883-2.
Scott, Smith and Winterbottom, 1973. Glossop Dale, Manor and Borough , Glossop and District historical Society, cited at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/River_Etherow
Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council and The Greater Manchester Archaeological Unit, 1992. A History and Archaeology of Tameside: Tameside Before 1066 . Benrose-Shafron, Chester.
UKIC 1990 Guidelines for the Preparation of Excavation Archives for Long-term StorageIfA , 2010. Code of Conduct: By-laws of the Institute for Archaeologists.
Written Scheme of Investigation Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL 16 Energy Alliance Repair Works October 2013 AMEC Project 32430
APPENDIX 1: LEGISLATION AND GUIDANCE
Listed Buildings
A Listed Building may not be demolished, extended or altered without permission being granted by the local planning authority. The statutory Listed Buildings scheme was introduced in 1947. Listing covers all features within the boundaries of the property besides the buildings themselves and may also include structures that might not be thought of as ‘buildings’ such as railings, gates, war memorials and post boxes. Value and importance is also associated with the setting of a building, and historic associations with people and events of national importance, construction methods and rarity value can also feature as listing criteria.
Treasure Act 2002
The Treasure Act 2002 which came into force on 1st January 2003 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, updated the Treasure Act of 1996. Finds defined as treasure under Section 2(1) the Act are outlined below:
(a) any object (other than a coin), any part of which is base metal, which, when found is one of at least two base metal objects in the same find which are of prehistoric date;
(b) any object, (other than a coin) which is of prehistoric date, and any part of which is gold or silver.
This Order (2002) extends the definition of “treasure” in section 1 of the Treasure Act 1996 (“the Act”) by designating under section 2(1) of the Act two classes of objects as being of outstanding historical, archaeological or cultural importance. The Order applies to England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
The first class of object is one of at least two base metal objects (other than coins) from the same find which are of prehistoric date.
The second class of object is any object (other than a coin) of prehistoric date, any part of which is gold or silver.
Any finds which are classed as ‘Treasure’ under the published criteria will be reported to the Coroner.
Hedgerow Regulations 1997
Certain hedgerows have statutory protection under the criteria for the definition of ‘important’ hedgerows laid down in The Hedgerows Regulations 1997 , under the criteria of Archaeology and History. There are several archaeological criteria, but hedgerows are usually considered to fall within this category if they pre-date an Enclosure Act for the parish. However, depiction on a document of 1845 or earlier, e.g. a Tithe Map, is generally taken as a bench mark date for the consideration of hedgerows as historically ‘important’ by Local Authorities.
Level 1: Archaeological and Cultural Heritage Appraisal Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL 1 Energy Alliance Repair Works October 2013 AMEC Project 32430
There are believed to be some ‘important’ hedgerows within the study area, although no specific instance has been identified where these will be affected.
Ancient Woodlands
Ancient woodlands consist of land that has been continuously wooded since AD 1600 in England. Areas of ancient woodland can be protected as nationally important Sites of Special Scientific Interest, Special Areas of Conservation or as Wildlife Sites recognised at a local level.
There are believed to be some ancient woodlands within the study area, identified in the Landscape Character Assessment.
Level 1: Archaeological and Cultural Heritage Appraisal Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL Appendix 1 - 2 Energy Alliance Repair Works October 2013 AMEC Project 32430
APPENDIX 2: SUMMARY OF MITIGATION PROPOSALS
Avoidance
Tower No. 4ZO233
- Planned repair works should be revised to avoid disturbance to significant known or potential archaeology. This may involve selection of an access route to avoid archaeology/cultural heritage asset, or selection of techniques to avoid ground disturbance. These could also involve modification to methods of constructing access routes in order to limit damage to below- ground deposits and earthworks. Techniques might include the laying of artificial trackways or avoidance of working with plant or vehicles in wet weather or when the ground is sodden; - In the event of access or works being adjacent or in close proximity to sensitive areas fencing and signage must be erected to demarcate either areas to be avoided or preferred routes.
Watching Brief
Tower Nos. 4ZO201; 4ZO237-4ZO245 inclusive; 4ZO248; 4ZO250
- This would involve the presence of an archaeologist during ground disturbance in order to monitor construction activities. The archaeologist would identify and record any exposed features and provide advice on any features or particularly sensitive areas to be avoided.
Level 1: Archaeological and Cultural Heritage Appraisal Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL Appendix 3 - 1 Energy Alliance Repair Works October 2013 AMEC Project 32430
APPENDIX 3: ARCHAEOLOGICAL CONSTRAINTS MAPPING
Level 1: Archaeological and Cultural Heritage Appraisal Stalybridge – Woodhead (4ZO) OHL