©Archaeological Solutions 2011

ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOLUTIONS LTD

COXFORD ABBEY QUARRY, , WEST

AN ARCHAEOLOGICAL DESK-BASED IMPACT ASSESSMENT

Authors: Megan Stoakley MA PIfA

NGR: TF 8275 3120 Report No: 3977 District: West Norfolk Site Code: N/A Approved: C Halpin Project No: 4674 Date: December 2011 Signed:

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Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. An Archaeological Desk-based Impact Assessment ©Archaeological Solutions 2011

CONTENTS

OASIS SUMMARY SUMMARY 1 INTRODUCTION 2 DESCRIPTION OF THE SITE 3 METHODOLOGY 4 THE EVIDENCE 4.1 Topography, geology & soils 4.2 Archaeological and historical background 4.3 Cartographic sources 4.4 Constraints 5 SITE VISIT 6 DISCUSSION 7 CONCLUSION 8 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 9 BIBLIOGRAPHY

Appendix 1 Sites and Monuments Record data Appendix 2 Cartographic sources

Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. An Archaeological Desk-based Impact Assessment ©Archaeological Solutions 2011

OASIS SUMMARY SHEET Project name Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. An archaeological desk- based assessment. In December 2011, Archaeological Solutions Limited (AS) carried out an archaeological desk-based impact assessment of Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk (NGR TF 8275 3120). The assessment was commissioned by Longwater Gravel Company Ltd to support a proposed planning application for the extension of the existing quarry, and also the proposed creation of two heathland areas. Prehistoric archaeology was located towards the south of the proposed quarry extension. Archaeological investigations have revealed Neolithic - Roman features and occupation debris suggestive of multi-phase temporary or seasonal settlement sites. The Domesday book suggests small settlements were established at East Rudham by the late Saxon period, while later medieval settlement at East Rudham was focussed around the Augustinian Priory of St Mary’s. The plan of the proposed extension, a large former quarry with woodland to the north and heathland to the south, has remained unchanged since 1886 and the potential for the survival of archaeological remains, excepting the quarried areas, is high. The proposed extensions of the quarry and the creation of two heathland areas to the south-east will have a significant impact on archaeological remains, if present, notably with the latter development as the new areas of heathland are in close proximity to the areas of archaeological excavation which have produced prehistoric archaeology. Ground reduction during use of the site as a bomb decoy airfield during World War II may have caused ground disturbance and may have truncated archaeological remains, if present, as may the root systems in the woodland parts of the site. Project dates (fieldwork) n/a Previous work (Y/N/?) Y Future work (Y/N/?) TBC P. number 4674 Site code n/a Type of project Archaeological Desk-Based Impact Assessment Site status None Current land use Quarry Planned development Extension of the quarry and creation of two heathland areas. Main features (+dates) n/a Significant finds (+dates) n/a Project location County/ District/ Parish Norfolk West Norfolk East Rudham HER for area Norfolk Historic Environment Record Post code (if known) n/a Area of site c.101ha. (extension areas) 7.8ha. (creation of 2 new areas of heathland) NGR TF 8275 3120 Height AOD (min/max) c.45-80m AOD Project creators Brief issued by Advice from Norfolk County Council Historic Environment Service (NCC HES) Project supervisor/s (PO) Archaeological Solutions Ltd Funded by Longwater Gravel Company Ltd Full title Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. An Archaeological Desk-Based Impact Assessment Authors Megan Stoakley MA PIfA Report no. 3977 Date (of report) December 2011

Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. An Archaeological Desk-based Impact Assessment ©Archaeological Solutions 2011

COXFORD ABBEY QUARRY, EAST RUDHAM, NORFOLK ARCHAEOLOGICAL DESK-BASED IMPACT ASSESSMENT

SUMMARY In December 2011, Archaeological Solutions Limited (AS) carried out an archaeological desk-based impact assessment of Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk (NGR TF 8275 3120). The assessment was commissioned by Longwater Gravel Company Ltd to support a proposed planning application for the extension of the existing quarry, and also the proposed creation of two heathland areas.

Prehistoric archaeology was located towards the south of the proposed quarry extension. Archaeological investigations have revealed Neolithic - Roman features and occupation debris suggestive of multi-phase temporary or seasonal settlement sites. The Domesday book suggests small settlements were established at East Rudham by the late Saxon period, while later medieval settlement at East Rudham was focussed around the Augustinian Priory of St Mary’s.

The plan of the proposed extension, a large former quarry with woodland to the north and heathland to the south, has remained unchanged since 1886 and the potential for the survival of archaeological remains, excepting the quarried areas, is high. The proposed extensions of the quarry and the creation of two heathland areas will have a significant impact on archaeological remains, if present, notably with the latter development as the new areas of heathland are in close proximity to the areas of archaeological excavation which have produced prehistoric archaeology. Ground reduction during use of the site as a bomb decoy airfield during World War II may have caused ground disturbance and may have truncated archaeological remains, if present, as may the root systems in the woodland parts of the site.

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 In December 2011, Archaeological Solutions Limited (AS) carried out an archaeological desk-based impact assessment of Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk (TF 8275 3120; Figs.1 - 2). The assessment was commissioned by Longwater Gravel Company Ltd in support of a proposed planning application to extend the quarry to the north, south, east and west and also the proposed creation of two heathland areas (Figs. 1 & 8). The assessment was prepared on the advice of Norfolk County Council Historic Environment Service (NCC HES).

Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. An Archaeological Desk-based Impact Assessment ©Archaeological Solutions 2011

1.2 The assessment was undertaken according to a specification prepared by Archaeological Solutions (dated 5th December 2011). It also followed the procedures outlined in the Institute of Archaeologists’ (IfA) Standard and Guidance for Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment (revised 2008), the relevant sections of Standards for Field Archaeology in the East of , East Anglian Archaeology Paper 14/ALGAO (Gurney 2003).

1.3 The objectives of the desk-based impact assessment were:

 To determine the location, extent, character, condition, significance and quality of the site’s historic environment from documentary sources;  To include an appraisal of the context in which the archaeological evidence rests and should aim to highlight any research priorities relevant to any further investigation of the site;  To provide a predictive model of the archaeological remains present and likely to be present on the site, and include an appraisal of their significance;  To assess any previous impacts on the site and the impact on any potential archaeological remains by any proposed development; and  To provide sufficient information to enable the formulation of a suitable management/investigation strategy for the site’s historic environment in the light of any proposals.

Planning policy

1.4 PPS 5 states that those parts of the historic environment that have significance because of their historic, archaeological, architectural or artistic interest are heritage assets. The Planning Policy Statement aims to deliver sustainable development by ensuring that policies and decisions that concern the historic environment recognise that heritage assets are a non-renewable resource, take account of the wider social, cultural, economic and environmental benefits of heritage conservation, and recognise that intelligently managed change may sometimes be necessary if heritage assets are to be maintained for the long term. It aims to conserve England’s heritage assets in a manner appropriate to their significance. It states that opportunities to capture evidence from the historic environment and to contribute to our knowledge and understanding of our past, and to make this publicly available, should be taken, particularly where a heritage asset is to be lost.

2 DESCRIPTION OF THE SITE (Figs.1 - 2)

2.1 Coxford Abbey Quarry is situated c.1.2km to the west of the village of , c.2.5km to the north of East Rudham and c.1.9km to the south-east of Syderstone. The larger settlement of Fakenham lies c.8 km to the east and the village of Coxford lies c.2km to the south-east. The River Tat is located c.800m to

Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. An Archaeological Desk-based Impact Assessment ©Archaeological Solutions 2011 the east and Coxford Heath is adjacent to the south-east of the site. Syderstone Common is adjacent to the assessment site, north-eastwards.

2.2 The proposed extension surrounds the existing quarry adjacent to Coxford Heath and comprises a mixture of rural terrain with woodland (Coxford Wood).

2.3 Numerous phases of archaeological investigations have been conducted within the current working areas at Coxford Abbey quarry (Doyle et al 2005; Cameron et al 2005; Grassam et al 2005 & 2006; Weston 2006; Unger et al 2009; McCall et al 2009, 2010 and 2011). The location of the previous archaeological investigations are all directly south of Coxford Heath, c.40m distant from the proposed extension (Fig. 2). Phases 1A, 1B, 2 and 3 revealed early Neolithic - early Roman archaeology. Early Bronze Age Beaker pottery was recovered in Phase 5, and undated pits were recorded in Phase 6.

3 METHODOLOGY

Information was sought from a variety of available sources in order to meet the objectives of the assessment.

3.1 Archaeological databases

The standard collation of all known archaeological sites and find spots within East Rudham comes from the Norfolk Historic Environment Record (NHER). Significant entries within an approximate 2km radius of the extension are listed in Appendix 1 and plotted in Fig. 3. Where relevant, these sites and finds have been discussed in Section 4.2.

3.2 Historical and cartographic sources

The principal sources for this type of evidence were the Norfolk County Council Historic Environment Service (Gressenhall) and the Norfolk Heritage Centre (Norwich). Relevant documents are listed in Appendix 2 and reproduced in Figs 4 - 8.

3.3 Secondary sources

The principal sources of secondary material were AS’ own in-house library. Unpublished sources relevant to the extension, such as previous field evaluation reports and desk-based assessments, have also been consulted. All sources are listed in the bibliography.

Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. An Archaeological Desk-based Impact Assessment ©Archaeological Solutions 2011

3.4 Geological/geotechnical information

A description of the superficial and solid geology of the local and surrounding area was compiled in order to assess the likely presence and potential condition of any archaeological remains on the site. This information was drawn from appropriate maps published by the Geological Survey of Great Britain (BGS 1978) and the Soil Survey of England and Wales (SSEW 1983).

3.5 Site Inspection

3.5.1 In the course of the desk-based impact assessment, a physical walkover of the site was undertaken on 9th December 2011 (DPs 1-8). The inspection had the following purposes:

 to examine the areas of archaeological potential identified during the desk- based assessment; in particular, with a view to gauging the likely survival and condition of archaeological remains; and  to consider the significance of any above ground structures, historic buildings, and historic landscape features, and their potential impact on the proposed development.

4 THE EVIDENCE

4.1 Topography, Geology and Soils

4.1.1 The site lies within a naturally undulating landscape that has been significantly altered, firstly due to its function as a bombing airfield during World War II, and secondly due to numerous phases of mineral extraction. The extension is located at an approximate height of 55m AOD in the north-west corner, rising to 80m AOD in the western corner and falling to 72m AOD in the southern corner of the site. The two areas of proposed new heathland creation lie on uneven ground at c.45-50m AOD.

4.1.2 The geology of the site comprises Cretaceous Upper Chalk overlain by drift geology of sands and gravels. The soils of the site are of the Barrow association (SSEW 1983).

4.1.3 Previous archaeological excavations within the existing quarry have recorded topsoil ranging between 0.29m–0.54m. In Phase 5 and the majority of Phase 6A the topsoil directly overlay the natural geology. In the western area of Phase 6A and in Phase 6B the topsoil overlay a thin layer of subsoil (0.15–0.20m thick).

Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. An Archaeological Desk-based Impact Assessment ©Archaeological Solutions 2011

4.2 Archaeological and Historical Background

Palaeolithic and Mesolithic

4.2.1 Palaeolithic and Mesolithic archaeological remains are not known close to the extension. Palaeolithic flint implements were discovered on Docking Road (HER 1981) c.1.5km to the north and on Barmer Common Plantation (HER 1988) c.2.25km to the north-west of the site. Mesolithic archaeological remains comprise flint implements discovered in East Rudham c.2.5km south of the site (HER 49896) and at Tatterford Longrow c.3.5km to the south-east.

Neolithic

4.2.2 A high number of Neolithic archaeological remains have been recorded within the surrounding landscape. Notably a cluster of flint implements were discovered south of the site at c.2-4km distant and included axes, arrowheads and retouched flakes (HERs 34530, 3615, 16202, 15729, 3629, 3618-20, 14677, 3640 and 12661).

4.2.3 Neolithic archaeology has been recorded adjacent to the extension. Archaeological investigations in advance of Phase 1A of Coxford Abbey quarry c.500m to the south-east revealed over 30 discrete pits clustered in eight groups dating to the early to middle Neolithic (Doyle et al 2005). Approximately 700 sherds of Neolithic pottery and 855 pieces of worked flint were recovered (Ibid).

4.2.4 Archaeological excavations in advance of Phase 1B recorded groups of late Neolithic to early Bronze Age features including pits, post holes, an occupation layer and a ditch (Cameron et al 2005). The features appeared to be grouped into four clusters which occurred throughout the area. The Phase 2 excavations recorded early Neolithic pit clusters and late Neolithic to early Bronze Age pits and post holes. It is been suggested that the Phases 1B and 2 features are indicative of a periodically-occupied landscape, occasionally returned to and re-used, possibly a seasonal encampment. The River Tat is located c.600m to the east of the site, and Neolithic to Bronze Age settlements often appear focussed along river valleys, which may have acted as routes of communication.

4.2.5 The Phase 3 excavations uncovered two late Neolithic to early Bronze Age pits located in the north-east and south-east corners of the excavation area (McCall 2011, 4). A large number of undated features were scattered evenly across the excavated area.

Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. An Archaeological Desk-based Impact Assessment ©Archaeological Solutions 2011

Bronze Age

4.2.6 A large number of Bronze Age remains are known in the wider landscape surrounding the extension, mainly comprising barrows and earthworks clustered south-east of the site (HERs 1987, 13841, 13840, 40573 and 30858). A levelled Bronze Age round barrow (HER 1985) is located beyond the southern end of the proposed extension. An early Bronze Age saucer barrow and substantial earthwork ditch (HER 11280) are located c.250m south-east of the site. Two late Bronze Age socketed axes (HER 32820) were discovered by metal detectorists c.500m south of the extension.

4.2.7 Excavations in advance of Phase 2 at Coxford Abbey quarry revealed late Neolithic to early Bronze Age features. Two natural gault holes were excavated and produced a large quantity of worked flint and pottery, suggesting that the features were possibly used either as shelters (Weston 2006). Phase 3 excavations revealed a pit containing early Bronze Age pottery (F4010). Phase 5A excavations revealed a cluster of four pits which contained early Bronze Age Beaker pottery (McCall 2011, 4).

Iron Age

4.2.8 Iron Age archaeological remains are extremely limited within the wider landscape of the extension and include several metal objects (HER 31569) discovered c.1.5km south-east of the site. Archaeological investigations within Phase 3 of Coxford Abbey quarry recorded two pits containing Iron Age pottery (Unger et al 2009).

Romano-British

4.2.9 Metal-detecting has recovered a large quantity of Romano-British archaeological remains c.1.1–1.5km to the south of the site, including coins and other metal artefacts (HERs 40988 & 40792). Roman artefacts were discovered at Tattersett c.1.5km south-east of the site and included coins, jewellery and a steelyard weight (HER 31569). Roman finds have also been recorded at East Rudham c.1.75m to the south of the site.

4.2.10 A cropmark of a possible Roman trackway and field system (HER 33770) associated with Romano-British pottery is located c.750m north of the extension at Syderstone Common. A possible Roman road is also located c.500m to the north (HER 55471) on a NW/SE alignment, which joins Peddars Way at Ringstead in the north-west leading to the Roman settlement at Toftress.

4.2.11 There is some evidence of early Roman occupation at Coxford Abbey quarry (HER 51025). Excavations in advance of Phase 3 recorded two early Roman features (Unger et al 2009). The small number of Romano-British

Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. An Archaeological Desk-based Impact Assessment ©Archaeological Solutions 2011 features and the paucity of the finds suggest that this may have been a temporary encampment.

Saxon

4.2.12 Metal-detecting has recovered numerous objects, for example beads, strap fittings and buckles c.1.5km south-east of the proposed extension (MNF 31569). Other items include brooches, pins and a sword (HER 31589) and a hanging bowl (HER 32606). There are references to East Rudham, Tattersett and Syderstone in the Domesday Book, indicating the presence of settlements on these sites by the later Saxon period. East Rudham was under the lordship of the Earl Warren (‘Toka’), a Saxon Thane (Blomefield 1807, 151).

Medieval

4.2.13 Early medieval settlement in East Rudham comprised farmsteads and isolated houses. The Augustinian priory or the Church of St Mary was founded in 1140 by William Chene and would have served as the focal point for the community of East Rudham (Blomefield 1807). The priory was moved to Coxford in 1216 and became one of the wealthiest Augustinian houses in Norfolk before being dissolved in 1558. Some sections of the priory are still standing with the remainder surviving as a series of earthworks c.2.25km to the south-east of the site (HER 3632).

4.2.14 Numerous medieval artefacts have been discovered throughout East Rudham and Coxford including coins, buckles and strap fittings (HERs 31589 & 31569), located c.1.5km south-east of the site. Medieval archaeological remains within the close environs of the site are sparse and comprise an architectural fragment (HER 36115) discovered on a 19th century farmstead c.520m west of the site. This is possibly re-used masonry derived from the Augustinian priory of St Mary’s (HER 3632).

Post-Medieval

4.2.15 The deserted later medieval villages at Wicken c.1.3km to the north-east and at Broomsthorpe, c.2.9km to the south-east, indicate a significant change in settlement pattern after the 16th century. This contraction in settlement can be further seen in the village of Tattersett c.2.5km to the south-east, which decreased dramatically in size during the 16th century. Fieldwalking surveys and metal detecting in East Rudham have recovered post-medieval artefacts including coins, buckles, a dagger, a purse and strap fittings (HER 31569) located c.1.5km to the south-east of the proposed extension.

Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. An Archaeological Desk-based Impact Assessment ©Archaeological Solutions 2011

The 20th Century

4.2.16 Coxford Heath and Syderstone Common were used as bombing decoys for Sculthorpe Airport during World War II (HER 15020). Mock airplanes and buildings were built on the proposed extension and immediate vicinity and aircraft from Docking decoyed German aircraft to bomb the field. The area was later used as a bombing range.

4.3 Cartographic Evidence (Figs. 4 - 7).

Ordnance Survey Map of Norfolk 1886 (Not illustrated)

4.3.1 The 1886 Ordnance Survey map of Norfolk depicts a rural landscape comprising woodland and scrubland. A small building and a cleared plot are located in the northern section of Coxford Wood.

Ordnance Survey Map of Norfolk, Sheet XV.15 (2nd edition), 1905 (Fig. 4)

4.3.2 The north-eastern area of the assessment site is depicted on the 1905 Ordnance Survey map (with the remainder on unavailable map sheets) and it shows part of Coxford Wood with the road B1454 running NW/SE between Syderstone Common and Coxford Wood. Three small buildings are located in Coxford Wood and are labelled as a ‘Pheasantry’.

Ordnance Survey Map of Norfolk, Sheets TF 8230 8330 and 8231 8331, 1979, and Ordnance Survey Map of Norfolk, Sheet TF83SW, 1983 (Figs. 5-6)

4.3.3 The Ordnance Survey map of 1979 depicts the extension with Coxford Heath and Coxford Wood (Fig.5). Fig. 6 (1983) depicts the area of the extension with Coxford Wood situated to the north and also Coxford Heath. The dwellings associated with the Pheasantry in the 1905 Ordnance Map are not depicted.

Ordnance Survey Map of Norfolk, Sheet TF 83 SW, 2003 (Fig. 7)

4.3.4 The 2003 Ordnance Survey map records a large patch of woodland in the eastern sector has been cleared and the quarry is recorded.

4.4 Constraints

Listed Buildings – There are no Listed Buildings on the assessment site or in the immediate vicinity.

Registered Park and Gardens – The assessment site is not within or close to any Registered Parks and Gardens.

Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. An Archaeological Desk-based Impact Assessment ©Archaeological Solutions 2011

Archaeological Priority Area – The assessment site is not located within an Archaeological Priority Area.

Scheduled Ancient Monuments – There are no Scheduled Ancient Monuments on the assessment site or in its immediate vicinity.

Conservation Areas – The assessment site is not located within a Conservation Area.

5 SITE VISIT

Site Access and Layout

5.1 A physical walkover of the assessment site was conducted on 9th December 2011 (DPs 1-8).

5.2 The extension areas surround the existing quarry workings in the central part of the site (Fig.8). Further quarrying is taking place to the south. A large rectangular strip of land is located to the west and is currently used for pig- rearing.

5.3 The physical walkover also examined the areas of proposed heathland creation to the south-east of the quarry (Heathland Area 1 and Heathland Area 2 (Fig.1)). Heathland Area 1 comprises a large open field of c.4.5ha. with a tumulus located in the north-east corner and a large wooded area on the western boundary (DPs 1-3). Access to this area is through a small gate on the eastern boundary. A small animal shed is present on the south-west field boundary (DP 4). Heathland Area 2 is accessed via a gate on the north-west boundary from a path running NW/SE from the eastern boundary of Heathland Area 1 (DP 5). The site comprises a large open field of c.3.3ha. with sparse wooded areas in the south-west corner (DPs 6-8).

6 DISCUSSION

6.1 Previous Ground Disturbance

Quarry Extension

6.1.1 No quarrying has taken place on the western side of the extension or at Coxford Wood and Coxford Heath. Previous ground disturbance in these areas will be low.

Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. An Archaeological Desk-based Impact Assessment ©Archaeological Solutions 2011

6.1.2 Additional previous ground disturbance may have occurred in the area of the quarry due to its use as a bomb decoy airfield and bombing range during World War II, and archaeological features may have been truncated, if present.

Heathland Creation

6.1.3 Two new areas of proposed heathland creation are located to the south- east of the extension. Both the heathland areas are undisturbed.

The Impact of the Proposed Development

Quarry Extension

6.1.4 The extension covers a total area of c.133.91ha. Coxford Wood is c.44.17 ha. and a long rectangular strip comprises the western extension of c.30 ha. The eastern extension comprises a regular square plot of c.6.77 ha., and the southern extension comprises a roughly triangular plot, Coxford Heath, c.20.38 ha.. Archaeological remains, if present, will be destroyed.

Heathland Creation

6.1.5 The heathland creation comprises the creation of two areas of lowland heathland. Heathland 1 (Fig.1) covers an area of c.80,000m2, and Heathland 2 (Fig.1) covers an area of c.48,000m2. It is understood that the methodology for the heathland creation will involve the stripping of existing topsoil from these areas, which may have an impact on archaeological remains, if present.

6.2 Archaeological Potential

6.2.1 Based on the known archaeology the potential of the site may be judged as follows:

Prehistoric – High. Archaeological investigations have revealed Neolithic and Bronze Age activity to the south of the site

Roman – High. Archaeological investigations have uncovered evidence of early Roman occupation to the south-east of the site.

Medieval – Low. Medieval archaeological remains are sparse within the environs of the site.

Post-Medieval – Low. Post-medieval archaeological remains have not been discovered within the vicinity of the site and cartographic evidence depicts the site and its environs as a rural landscape from 1886 onwards.

Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. An Archaeological Desk-based Impact Assessment ©Archaeological Solutions 2011

7 CONCLUSION

7.1 The extension is located in a rural landscape in which known archaeological remains largely date from the prehistoric and Roman periods. Numerous archaeological investigations have recorded Neolithic and Bronze Age archaeological remains south of the extension as well as evidence for early Roman occupation towards the south-east. It has been suggested that the archaeology represents temporary or seasonal encampment. It is likely that settlements were present at East Rudham and Syderstone from the later Saxon period onwards. Medieval archaeological remains within the vicinity of the site are sparse and post-medieval archaeological remains have not been discovered within the environs of the site. Cartographic evidence depicts the site and the surrounding area remaining rural from the late 19th century.

7.2 The proposed extension of the quarry and the creation of two areas of heathland will impact archaeological remains, if present. Previous ground disturbance in the general area comprises mineral extraction and the use of the site as a bomb decoy airfield in World War II. No extensive previous ground disturbance has been identified in the proposed extension areas or heathland creation areas, though the creation of WWI bomb decoy buildings may have caused some localised disturbance, and the presence of dense woodland on parts of the proposed extension areas may also have caused truncation to any archaeological remains by way of tree roots.

8 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Archaeological Solutions would like to thank the Longwater Gravel Company Ltd for their co-operation and funding of the desk-based assessment (in particular Mr Simon Smith for his assistance).

AS is pleased to acknowledge the staff of the Norfolk County Council Historic Environment Service (NCC HES), in particular Sarah Howard. AS would also like to thank the staff of the Norfolk Heritage Centre in Norwich.

9 BIBLIOGRAPHY

Blomefield, F. 1807. 'Gallow and Brothercross Hundreds: East Rudham'. An Essay Towards the Topographical History of the County of Norfolk Volume 7. pp151-157.

Cameron, I., Weston, P. & Woolhouse, T. 2005. Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. 'Strip, Map & Sample' Archaeological Excavation Phase 1B'. Archaeological Solutions Ltd Rpt No. 1950.

Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. An Archaeological Desk-based Impact Assessment ©Archaeological Solutions 2011

Doyle, K; Grassam, A & Weston, P. 2005. Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. Archaeological Excavation Phase 1A. AS Report 1817.

Grassam, A. and Weston, P. 2006. Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. An Archaeological Evaluation (Field Survey, Phase 2). Archaeological Solutions Ltd Report No. 2082.

Grassam, A. and Weston, P. 2005. Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. An Archaeological Evaluation (Field Survey, Phase 1B). Archaeological Solutions Ltd Report No. 1922.

McCall, W., Adams, M., Leonard, C. & Price, R. 2011. Strip, Map and Sample (Phases 5A, 5B, 5C, 6A & 6B): Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. Archaeological Solutions Ltd 2010 Report No. 3900.

McCall, W. 2010. Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. ‘Strip, Map and Sample’ Archaeological Excavation (Phases 5 A & B). Archaeological Solutions 2010 Rpt No. 3558.

McCall, W., Adams, M. and Price, R. 2010. Strip, Map and Sample (Phases 5a- c & 6a): Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. Archaeological Solutions Ltd 2010 Report No. 3671.

McCall, W. 2009. Strip, Map and Sample (Phase 5): Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. Archaeological Solutions Ltd Report No. 3441.

Medlycott, M. (ed). 2011. Research and Archaeology Revisited: a revised framework for the . ALGAO East Anglian Archaeology: Occasional Paper No. 24.

Soil Survey of England and Wales 1983 Legend for the 1:250,000 Soil Map of England and Wales. Harpenden

Unger,S., Brook, M. and Smith, L. 2009. ‘Strip, Map and Sample:’ Archaeological Excavation at Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk (Phase 3). Archaeological Solutions Ltd Report No. 3368.

Weinreb, B. & Hibbert, C. 1995. The London Encyclopaedia

Weston, P. 2006. Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk; Archaeological Strip, Map & Sample. Phase 2, AS Report No. 2109.

Williams, A. & Martin. G. (eds) 2002 Domesday Book: A Complete Translation. Penguin Classics

Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. An Archaeological Desk-based Impact Assessment ©Archaeological Solutions 2011

WEB RESOURCES

Accessed on 30th November 2011: www.ads.ahds.ac.uk www.heritage-gateway.org.uk www.english-heritage.org.uk

Accessed on 7th December 2011. www.norfolk.gov.uk www.heritage.norfolk.gov.uk www.old-maps.co.uk

Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. An Archaeological Desk-based Impact Assessment ©Archaeological Solutions 2011

APPENDIX 1 SITES AND MONUMENTS RECORD DATA

The following sites are those that lie within a 2Km radius of the assessment site. The table has been compiled from data held by the Norfolk County Council Historic Environment Service (NCC HES).

SMR NGR SP Description Neolithic HER 41273 TF 8298 3018 Neolithic/Bronze Age occupation debris and pit clusters, Coxford Abbey quarry. Clusters of Neolithic pits, Neolithic pottery and worked flints were found during an evaluation and excavation carried out by Archaeological Solutions in 2005. Further excavation work prior to mineral extraction revealed Late Neolithic or Bronze Age occupation debris comprising pit clusters and a ditch containing worked flints and pottery. HER 51025 TF 8318 3040 Early Neolithic to Early Roman Activity at Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham. A site comprising four phases of occupation activity from the early Neolithic through to early Roman period. In 2007 a 3rd phase of field survey and metal detecting produced a large amount of burnt flint indicating prehistoric domestic settlement within this area. In 2009 a 5th phase of excavation was undertaken that recovered pits containing Early Bronze Age Beaker pottery and possible Early Bronze Age postholes and various undated and natural features including a possible chalk lined cess pit. Bronze Age HER 1985 TF 8253 3030 This is the site of a Bronze Age round barrow, marked on an Ordnance Survey map of 1836. The barrow is no longer visible as a feature in the landscape (south-west corner of Coxford Heath). HER 11280 TF 8349 3070 An Early Bronze Age saucer barrow, with a substantial earthwork ditch. 1946. Barrow identified from RAF/Ordnance Survey air photograph. Mound 24m diameter, 1.5m high. Ditch 3.5m wide, 5.1m deep. Outer bank 3.5m wide, 3.1m high. Covered with bracken on heath. Gravel workings nearby. A. J. Lawson (NAU), 28 January 1974. HER 32820 Not displayed Late Bronze Age socketed axeheads. Metal detecting in 1997 recovered two Late Bronze Age socketed axeheads from this site. These may be part of a hoard. Roman HER 33770 TF 8274 3210 Roman trackway, enclosure boundaries and pottery sherds, Syderstone Common. Aerial photography from 1946 recorded a series of parallel ditches. A site visit in 1998 noted a double banked and ditched 'trackway', and a large number of Roman pottery sherds were recovered from the area. The linear features shown on the aerial photograph may be post medieval, but it is thought that they are Roman features, forming a trackway and part of an enclosure boundary. HER 55471 Possible Roman Road from Ringstead to Toftrees. April 2011 The line of a possible Roman road linking the Peddars Way at Ringstead with the Roman settlement at Toftrees is suggested based on parish boundaries and roads and tracks shown on historic maps. J.Albone (HES), 21 April 2011.

Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. An Archaeological Desk-based Impact Assessment ©Archaeological Solutions 2011

Medieval HER 36115 TF 8175 3112 Medieval architectual fragment. A 19th century farm building, containing reused medieval masonry, perhaps taken from St Mary's Priory, NHER 3632. Modern HER TF 829 310 World War Two bombing decoy. Decoy airfield on Coxford 15020 Heath (area centred TF 8330) known as Syderstone. Mock aeroplanes and buildings. Aircraft from Docking etc decoyed German aircraft to bomb the field. E. Rose (NAU) 14 June 1979. Later used as bombing range. E. Rose (NLA) 10 February 1993. World War II RAF airfield decoy, type Q/K. Parent field was Bircham Newton. D. Gurney (NLA), 28 January 1997.

APPENDIX 2 CARTOGRAPHIC SOURCES

Figs Date Title Scale Location \ 1886 Ordnance Survey Map of 1:1250 www.old-maps.co.uk Norfolk (Accessed 07-12-11) 4 1905 Ordnance Survey Map of 1:1250 NHC (Norwich) Norfolk Sheet XV.15 (2nd edition) 5 1979 Ordnance Survey Map of 1:1250 NHC (Norwich) Norfolk Plan TF8230-8330. 1979 Ordnance Survey Map of 1:1250 NHC (Norwich) Norfolk Plan TF8231-8331 6 1983 Ordnance Survey Map of 1:1250 NHC (Norwich) Norfolk Plan TF83SW 7 2003 Ordnance Survey Map of 1:10,000 NHC (Norwich) Norfolk Plan TF83SW

Coxford Abbey Quarry, East Rudham, Norfolk. An Archaeological Desk-based Impact Assessment PHOTOGRAPHIC INDEX

1 2 Heathland Area 1 by gate entrance in east, Heathland Area 1 at location of tumulus in view due west north-east corner, view to the E

3 4 View looking W into Heathland Area 1 from Animal shed located on SW field boundary of central point in field Heathland Area 1. View from N.

5 6 Path leading from NE part of Heathland View SE of Heathland Area 2 (by gate in NW) Area 1 to NW part of Heathland Area 2. View to the SE.

7 8 Central-west section of Heathland Area 2, SW quadrant of Heathland Area 2, view view SE SW showing 2nd entrance

N

SITE

Extension Heathland Area 2

Heathland Previous Area 1 excavations

A149

Fakenham Site A148

Reproduced from the 1999 Ordnance Survey 1:25000 map with the Archaeological Solutions Ltd permission of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office.Ó Crown copyright Fig. 1 Site location plan Archaeological Solutions Ltd Scale 1:25,000 at A4 Licence number 100036680

N

SITE

Reproduced from the 1905 Ordnance Archaeological Solutions Ltd Survey 1:1250 map with the permission of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office.Ó Crown copyright Fig. 4 2nd edition OS map, 1905 Archaeological Solutions Ltd Not to scale: reproduced from the 1:1250 map at A4 Licence number 100036680 N

SITE

Reproduced from the 1979 Ordnance Survey 1:1250 map with the permission of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office.Ó Crown copyright Archaeological Solutions Ltd Licence number 100036680 Archaeological Solutions Ltd Fig. 5 OS map, 1979 Not to scale: reproduced from the 1:12500 map at A4 N

SITE

Reproduced from the 1983 Ordnance Survey 1:10000 map with the permission of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office.Ó Crown copyright Archaeological Solutions Ltd Licence number 100036680

Archaeological Solutions Ltd Fig. 6 OS map, 1983 Not to scale: reproduced from the 1:10,000 map at A4 N

SITE

Reproduced from the 2003 Ordnance Survey 1:10,000 map with the permission of Her Majesty’s Stationery Archaeological Solutions Ltd Office.Ó Crown copyright Archaeological Solutions Ltd Fig. 7 OS map, 2003 Licence number 100036680 Not to scale: reproduced from the 1:10,000 map at A4