Appendix 3: Historic Environment Character Zones Assessments for Gnosall

This appendix provides an assessment of the historic environment for each of the Historic Environment Character Zones (HECZs) which lies around the villages of Gnosall and Gnosall Heath.

It should be noted that the information and any recommendations contained within this appendix is subject to amendment should any new information become available.

For further information regarding the Historic Environment Record (HER); Historic Landscape Characterisation (HLC) and designated sites please contact:

Cultural Environment Team Environment & Countryside Development Services Directorate Staffordshire County Council Riverway Stafford ST16 3TJ

Tel: 01785 277281/277285/277290

Email: [email protected]

Staffordshire County Council August 2009

1 GHECZ 1 – Coton (HECA 33)

Summary

The historic landscape character of the zone is dominated by squatter enclosure with an associated dispersed settlement pattern. This historic landscape may have its origins in the medieval period, but probably mostly dates to the 16th century when Coton End is first recorded. Squatter enclosure is a rare historic landscape character type within Staffordshire and is consequently sensitive to change. There is also the potential for evidence of earlier settlement to survive either as below or above ground archaeology or within the fabric of the historic farmsteads.

Also contributing significantly to the historic landscape character of the zone are the two lines of transportation. The canal, designated as a Conservation Area, remains an important feature in the landscape and whilst the tracks of the railway have been lifted its form is still prominent within the zone.

Medium to large scale development within the zone will have a significant impact on the historic environment of the zone. Should development be planned within the zone it would need to address impacts upon and potential mitigation strategies for:

• The sensitive historic landscape of squatter enclosure typified by small irregular fields.

• The impact upon the associated small-scale scattered settlement pattern

• The impact upon the Conservation Area

• The impact upon below ground archaeological deposits.

Early consultation with the Conservation Officer at Stafford Borough Council and the Cultural Heritage Team at Staffordshire County Council is advised.

Designations (map 1)

A small section of the Shropshire Union Canal Conservation Area (081) crosses the zone on an approximate north west to south east alignment.

Archaeological Character (map 2)

The current understanding of the later prehistoric landscape of the country suggests that it had mostly been heavily wooded until the Bronze Age. Some clearance may have begun to take place by this period to support a small scale pastoral economy when humans were settling down to farm specific landscapes. However, little archaeological work has been carried out and consequently the early history of the zone is poorly understood.

2 To the east of the zone lies the village of Gnosall, which was first recorded in Domesday Book (1086) where 12 heads of household were recorded1. It was held by a religious community which had probably been founded in the 10th century2.

Historic Landscape (map 3)

There appears to have been settlement at Coton since the early 14th century when four people were recorded in a tax return3. By 1680 there were five or six households with a further four being recorded at Coton End4. The historic landscape character suggests that this zone had previously been settled by squatters probably upon heathland and the placename Coton End may support this interpretation5. Coton End was first mentioned in documentary sources in the late 16th century by which time it was recorded as part of the manor of Coton; this was also the period at which heathland is recorded as being enclosed within the wider Gnosall area6. However, it is possible that squatting on the heathland had begun within the zone by the late 13th century, a period of high population, and that Coton itself has its origins as assarting upon heath or waste land7. An area of ridge and furrow was recorded from aerial photographs taken in the 1960s, which may relate to arable activity associated with Coton following assarting in the later medieval period8. The surviving Squatter Enclosure is a rare landscape within Staffordshire and as such is highly sensitive to change. It is a landscape which could benefit from enhancement and management to ensure its survival for future generations to appreciate.

The historic dispersed nature of the settlement is still distinct within the landscape and three historic farmsteads survive. Two of these farmsteads, Coton Farm a small loose courtyard complex and Cross Fields Farm a dispersed cluster plan, both suggest that they developed incrementally over a over a number of years if not centuries. Both of these farmsteads lie within the hamlet of Coton and early elements may survive within these structures, which could inform the origins of the hamlet.

The third farmstead, Cotton Bank Farm, has been classified as a regular courtyard plan which is the most common form in Staffordshire and is spread widely across the landscape. These forms appear to represent a deliberate

1 Staffordshire HER: PRN 02467 2 Heath 1974: 6 3 Staffordshire Historic Collections volume 7 part one (1886) viewed on http://www.british- history.ac.uk/ (17/08/2009). 4 Midgley 1958: 111 5 Horowitz 2005: 210 6 Ibid: p. 113 and p. 126 7 Assarting: processes where fields are enclosed piecemeal in an area of woodland or heathland. Assarting occurred throughout the medieval period and later, but is particularly recorded in the 12th and 13th century in Staffordshire (cf Palliser 1976: 70-76). 8 Staffordshire HER: PRN 20370; Ridge & furrow: A series of long, raised ridges separated by ditches used to prepare the ground for arable cultivation. This was a technique, characteristic of the medieval period. (Scope note reproduced from the Thesaurus of Monument Types by kind permission of English Heritage © 2009).

3 development aimed at improving agricultural productivity being taken forward by wealthy landowners at this period. A brick built barn forms part of this farmstead and it is likely that, in common with the majority of regular courtyard plan farmsteads, it post dates 17509. However, it is possible that it represents the complete re-building of an earlier farmstead.

The zone is also crossed by two lines of transportation, both of which have their origins in the 19th century. The Birmingham to Liverpool Junction Canal was begun circa 1830 by the canal engineer Thomas Telford10. Fifteen years later it became part of a wider canal network known as the ‘Shropshire Canals Union’ which went onto construct the Stafford to Wellington Railway line circa 1849. By the time of its completion the railway line was leased to the London and North Western Railway (LNWR) Company11. The railway line crosses the canal to the north of the zone. The railway line closed to passengers in 1965, but survives as a substantial earthwork. The canal continues to enjoy increasing popularity among the pleasure boating fraternity and has been designated as a Conservation Area which recognises its importance to the historic landscape.

Historic Assets Summary Table

Survival The zone has seen little disturbance although 2 a few of the field boundaries have been removed in some areas of the squatter enclosure. There are three historic farmsteads, which on the whole have seen little change to their plan forms. Potential There are limited known historic environment 2 assets (HEAs) other than the lines of transportation and the farmsteads. There is the potential for evidence to survive in the area relating to earlier settlement either as above or below ground archaeology or within the fabric of the historic buildings. Documentation HER data 1 Diversity There are a range of HEAs from the 2 farmsteads and the historic transportation routes to the surviving historic landscape character. The date range of these assets is probably of 16th to mid 19th century date. Group Association There is likely to be an association between 3 the dispersed nature of the settlement pattern, particularly the relationship of at least two of the farmsteads, with the surviving historic field pattern.

9 Lake 2009: 19 10 Staffordshire HER: PRN 05238 11 Staffordshire HER: PRN 50655

Amenity Value The canal provides a sense of place within 2 the zone and is enjoyed as a public amenity. The zone would benefit from the enhancement of the historic landscape character. Sensitivity to change (to The rarity of the historic landscape character 3 housing expansion & of squatter enclosure within the county along infrastructure for SBC) with the associated dispersed settlement pattern means that the zone is particularly sensitive to large and medium scale development. The impact upon the Conservation Area would also need to be taken into account. Overall Score 15

Bibliography

British History Online: http://www.british-history.ac.uk/ (viewed 17/08/2009).

Edwards, B. 2009. Historic farmsteads & landscape character in Staffordshire. Unpublished report.

Heath, P. 1974. ‘The Medieval Church’ in M. W. Greenslade (ed.) A History of the county of Staffordshire: volume III. Oxford University Press.

Horowitz, D. 2005. The place-names of Staffordshire. Privately published.

Lake, J. 2009. ‘Historic farmsteads: national context’ in B. Edwards Historic farmsteads & landscape character in Staffordshire. Unpublished report.

Midgley, L. M. 1958. ‘Gnosall’ in L. M. Midgley (ed.) A History of the County of Stafford Volume IV. Oxford University Press.

Palliser, D. M. (1976). The making of the English landscape: the Staffordshire landscape. Hodder & Stoughton (London).

This product includesmapping licensed Surveyfrom Ordnance withMajesty’s permission of the of Her Office Controller © copyright Crown and/or database All 2009 . rights right reserved. Licence number 100019422.

Map 1: Designations

0019422. This product includesmapping licensed Survey from Ordnance withMajesty’s permission of the of Her Office Controller © copyright Crown and/or database All 2009. rights right reserved. Licence number 10

Map 2: Known historic environment assets from the HER

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Map 3: Refined HLC

8 GHECZ 2 – Plardiwick (HECA 33)

Summary

The zone is dominated by a post medieval field pattern which had its origins as a medieval arable open field system12. The origins of the landscape were probably associated with the settlement of Gnosall or possibly with a small settlement at Plardiwick. There was certainly a settlement present here by the late 17th century although by the early 19th century only three farmsteads survived; of which only two are present within the modern landscape.

Medium to large scale development within the zone will have at least a moderate impact on the historic environment of the zone. Should development be planned within the zone it would need to address impacts upon and potential mitigation strategies for:

• The impact upon the surviving historic landscape character and its relationship to the settlement pattern. Should development be planned consideration at the design stage should be given to how the historic patterns could be reflected or retained.

• The impact upon the surviving historic farmsteads.

• The impact upon the Conservation Area and Listed Buildings

• The impact upon below ground archaeological deposits.

Early consultation with the Conservation Officer at Stafford Borough Council and the Cultural Heritage Team at Staffordshire County Council is advised.

Designations (map 4)

A small section of the Shropshire Union Canal Conservation Area (081) crosses the zone on an approximate north west-south east alignment. Lying along the canal are two Grade II Listed structures; a canal bridge and a milepost.

Archaeological Character (map 5)

12 Open Field: An area of arable land with common rights after harvest or while fallow. Usually without internal divisions (hedges, walls or fences). (Scope note reproduced from the Thesaurus of Monument Types by kind permission of English Heritage © 2009)

9 To the east of the zone lies the village of Gnosall, which was first recorded in Domesday Book (1086) where 12 heads of household were recorded13. It was held by a religious community which had probably been founded in the 10th century14.

Historic Landscape (map 6)

The historic landscape character is dominated by surviving piecemeal enclosure which was probably created in the post medieval period from a medieval open field system. The open fields were a system of arable agriculture, where two or more large fields were divided into individual strips whereby the local people held scattered strips among them. Evidence of this form of arable agriculture was identified on aerial photographs taken in the early 1960s in the form of ridge and furrow15 earthworks to the south of Plardiwick Farm. These fields were probably associated with the village of Gnosall, or possibly with a small settlement at Plardiwick.

Plardiwick is first mentioned in documentary sources at the end of the 12th century and by the late 17th century there were six houses, one of which appears to have been a manor house16. By circa 1839 only two farmsteads survived; Plardiwick Farm and Plardiwick Manor Farm which lay adjacent to one another17. It has been suggested that the latter was built upon the site of the manor house. Both of the farmhouses were said to have late 18th/early 19th century origins, although that associated with Plardiwick Manor House was demolished sometime after the 1950s along with the majority of the farm complex. A further historic farmstead survives within the zone, Willey Farm which probably represents a small holding, which was present by at least the early 19th century.

A short section of the Birmingham to Liverpool Junction Canal crosses the zone on an approximate north west-south east alignment. It was begun circa 1830 by the canal engineer Thomas Telford18. Fifteen years later it became part of a wider canal network known as the Shropshire Canals Union. The Shropshire Union canal continues to enjoy increasing popularity among the pleasure boating fraternity and has been designated as a Conservation Area which recognises its importance to the historic landscape. Also associated with the canal within the zone is a Grade II Listed canal bridge dating to circa 1829 to 1832 designed by Thomas Telford and a Grade II Listed canal milepost of circa 183519.

13 Staffordshire HER: PRN 02467 14 Heath 1974: 6 15 Staffordshire HER: PRN 20370; Ridge & furrow: A series of long, raised ridges separated by ditches used to prepare the ground for arable cultivation. This was a technique, characteristic of the medieval period. (Scope note reproduced from the Thesaurus of Monument Types by kind permission of English Heritage © 2009) 16 Staffordshire HER: PRN 53336 17 Staffordshire HER: PRN 53337 and PRN 53338 18 Staffordshire HER: PRN 05238 19 Staffordshire HER: PRN 02932 and PRN 08069

Historic Assets Summary Table

Survival The zone has moderate disturbance from 2 modern farming practices, although the form of the post medieval field system largely survives. Potential There are limited known historic environment 2 assets (HEAs), although the landscape has not been significantly disturbed and the current lack of knowledge is probably the result of a lack of investigation. There is the potential for early settlement to survive associated with Plardiwick either as above or below ground archaeology or within the fabric of the surviving historic buildings. Documentation HER data 1 Diversity There are a range of assets from the 2 surviving historic farmsteads and field pattern to the canal and its associated structures. Group Association There are potential associations between the 2 origins of the field system and the former settlement of Plardiwick and between the form of the historic farmsteads and the later piecemeal enclosure. Amenity Value The historic environment of the zone does not 1 currently lend itself to display or visitor attraction. Sensitivity to change (to The zone is highly sensitive to medium to 3 housing expansion & largescale development in terms of the infrastructure for SBC) impact upon the surviving field pattern and its relationship to the historic settlement pattern. The impact upon the Conservation Area and the associated Listed Buildings would also need to be considered. Overall Score 13

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Map 4: Designations

12 ghts reserved.

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Map 5: Known historic environment assets from the HER

right and/or right database All 2009. right rights reserved. This product includesmapping licensed Survey from Ordnance withMajesty’s permission of the of Her Office Controller © copy Crown Licence number 100019422.

Map 6: Refined HLC

14 GHECZ 3 – Doley Brook (HECA 33 and 5c)

Summary

The zone is dominated by the water meadows within the floodplain of the Doley Brook which were probably created in the late 18th or 19th century. Water meadow features are likely to survive across much of the zone.

The line of the Stafford to Wellington railway also crosses the zone and survives as a substantial earthwork.

• The impact upon the adjacent Conservation Area

• Impact upon the surviving watermeadow features.

• The impact upon below ground archaeological deposits.

Early consultation with the Conservation Officer at Stafford Borough Council and the Cultural Heritage Team at Staffordshire County Council is advised.

Designations

There are currently no designated sites lying within the zone although the Gnosall Conservation Area (034) lies adjacent to the north east.

Archaeological Character (map 7)

The current understanding of the later prehistoric landscape of the country suggests that it had mostly been heavily wooded until the Bronze Age. Some clearance may have begun to take place by this period to support a small scale pastoral economy when humans were settling down to farm specific landscapes. Little archaeological work has been carried out and consequently the early history of the zone is poorly understood. However, where archaeological sites are encountered the low-lying nature of the ground may indicate survival of water-logged remains particularly as pits, ditches and other negative features.

The village of Gnosall lies to the north east of the zone, which was first recorded in Domesday Book (1086) where 12 heads of household were recorded20. It was held by a religious community which had probably been founded in the 10th century21.

20 Staffordshire HER: PRN 02467 21 Heath 1974: 6

15 Documentary sources suggest that the modern road bridge taking the A518 over the Doley Brook has been the site of a bridge since at least the 17th century22.

Historic Landscape (map 8)

The zone represents a valley associated with the Doley Brook which crosses between the two settlements of Gnosall and Gnosall Heath. The northern half of the zone is defined by drained wetlands. These were probably carried out in the late 18th or 19th century when a series of water meadows were laid out. The development of water meadows during this period meant that the landowners could control the flooding of the land and ensure an early crop of grass and subsequent multiple crops for fodder. This enabled them to over- winter larger numbers of animals. It is likely that upstanding earthworks survive across the floodplain within the zone, although two areas of the watermeadow system have been altered to provide playing fields during the 20th century.

The Stafford to Wellington Railway line crosses the zone on an approximate north west-south east alignment and was constructed circa 184923. The railway line closed to passengers in 1965 although it is still readily legible within the landscape.

Historic Assets Summary Table

Survival The zone contains little disturbance, except in 3 discrete areas, and the known historic environment assets are likely to be well preserved. Potential Due to little disturbance there is a strong 3 probability that earthwork features, as well as structures such as sluices and drains, associated with the watermeadow may survive. Documentation HER data 1 Diversity There are few known HEAs which comprise 1 the watermeadow features and the earthwork remains of the railway. Group Association There are few HEAs which are not 1 associated. Amenity Value The watermeadows, where they survive 2 sufficiently, could be promoted to help define a sense of place for the area and interpretation could be provided to aid an understanding of these features within the local landscape.

22 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00828 23 Staffordshire HER: PRN 50655

Sensitivity to change (to The zone is highly sensitive to medium to 3 housing expansion & large scale development in terms of the infrastructure for SBC) impact upon the surviving features of the water meadow. Overall Score 14

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Map 7: Known historic environment assets from the HER

17 This product includes mapping licensed from Ordnance Survey with the permission of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Office © Crown copyright and/or database right 2009. All rights reserved. Licence number 100019422.

Map 8: Refined HLC

18 GHECZ 4 – South of Doleygate (HECA 33)

Summary

The extant historic landscape character mostly dates to the 18th/19th century when the field system was planned. It is likely that it was created as part of the development of the settlement of Plardiwick to the south (see GHECZ 2) which had occurred by circa 1839.

• The impact upon the surviving historic landscape character. Should development be planned consideration at the design stage should be given to how the historic patterns could be reflected or retained.

• The impact upon below ground archaeological deposits.

Early consultation with the Conservation Officer at Stafford Borough Council and the Cultural Heritage Team at Staffordshire County Council is advised.

Designations

There are currently no designated sites lying within the zone.

Archaeological Character

The village of Gnosall lies approximately 1km to the west of the zone, which was first recorded in Domesday Book (1086) where 12 heads of household were recorded24. It was held by a religious community which had probably been founded in the 10th century25. The zone also lies just to the north of Plardiwick, a small settlement with probable medieval origins (see GHECZ 2). It is possible that the extent of earlier settlement may have extended into this zone.

24 Staffordshire HER: PRN 02467 25 Heath 1974: 6

19 Historic Landscape (map 9)

The historic landscape character is dominated by a field pattern of 18th/19th century planned and semi-planned enclosure. The planned enclosure was enclosed by surveyors using straight field boundaries and so creating fields and road systems with strong geometric patterns. The earlier history of this landscape has been obscured by the laying out of this field system, but it is possible that it was created under the influence of the Plardiwick estate, which lies to the south. A re-planning of the estate appears to have occurred prior to the early 19th century, as by circa 1839 there were only two tenant farmers occupying two holdings. Peartree Farm, which lies centrally within the zone, dates to the early 20th century. However, the first edition 1” OS map (circa 1834 to 1836) suggests that this site had been previously occupied by buildings, which had been demolished by the late 19th century.

Historic Assets Summary Table

Survival The overall pattern of the planned enclosure 2 survives well. The zone has seen some moderate disturbance in the form of the addition and removal of field boundaries throughout the 20th century and from ploughing. Potential There are limited known historic environment 2 assets (HEAs) due mainly to a lack of investigation. There is the potential for evidence of earlier settlement, associated with Plardiwick, to survive. Documentation HER data 1 Diversity There are few HEAs beyond the historic field 1 pattern. Group Association It is likely that the field pattern within the zone 2 is closely associated with the development of the settlement of Plardiwick (see HECZ 2) into two farmsteads. Amenity Value The historic environment does not lend itself 1 to visitor display or attraction. Sensitivity to change (to Medium to large scale development is likely 2 housing expansion & to have at least a moderate impact upon the infrastructure for SBC) legibility of the historic landscape character of the zone. Overall Score 11

ncludes mappingncludes licensed Survey from Ordnance This product i withMajesty’s permission of the of Her Office Controller © copyright Crown and/or database All 2009. rights right reserved. Licence number 100019422.

Map 9: Refined HLC

21 GHECZ 5 – Historic cores of Gnosall and Audmore (HECA 5c)

Summary

The zone comprises the historic cores of both Gnosall and Audmore. The former has its origins in at least the medieval period, although there is documentary evidence to suggest its origins lie within the later Saxon period. The village is covered by a Conservation Area and four Listed Buildings, one of which is also a Scheduled Monument, survive within the settlement. Further unlisted historic buildings also contribute to the character of the zone and there is the potential for earlier cores to survive within the fabric of some of these properties. Audmore probably dates to the late medieval or post medieval period, being first mentioned in the late 16th century. The settlement developed as a dispersed hamlet strung out along the lane and several unlisted historic buildings survive which continue to contribute to its character.

There is the potential for below ground archaeological deposits to survive associated with earlier settlement activity within the zone.

• The impact upon the designated sites; the Conservation Area, Listed Buildings and the Scheduled Monument.

• The impact upon the historic character of the two settlements, which should be taken into account at the design stage of any development.

• The impact upon below ground archaeological deposits.

Early consultation with the Conservation Officer at Stafford Borough Council and the Cultural Heritage Team at Staffordshire County Council is advised.

Designations (map 10)

There is one Scheduled Monument, Gnosall lock up, which is also a Grade II Listed building within the zone26. There are a further three Listed buildings including St Lawrence’s Church (Grade I)27.

The Gnosall Conservation Area (034) covers the historic core of the village.

Archaeological Character (map 11)

The current understanding of the later prehistoric landscape of the country suggests that it had mostly been heavily wooded until the Bronze Age. Some

26 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00049; English Heritage SM no. 33 27 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00844

22 clearance may have begun to take place by this period to support a small scale pastoral economy when humans were settling down to farm specific landscapes. The only evidence dating to the Roman period is a single coin which was found in a garden, within GHECA 10, during the 1940s. On the whole little archaeological work has been carried out and consequently the early history of the zone is poorly understood.

The village of Gnosall was first recorded in Domesday Book (1086) where 12 heads of household were recorded28. It was held by a religious community which had probably been founded in the 10th century29. The extant Grade I Listed St Lawrence’s church has its origins in the 12th century and was re- fashioned in the 13th and 14th centuries30. Documentary sources suggest that the site of a medieval manor house, belonging to the church, was located within the village and was known as Sukar’s Hall. This is believed to have been demolished by the late 17th century, but by the early to mid 19th century Manor Farm had been constructed on its site (demolished in the 1960s). A 12th century carved stone was apparently built into the fabric of the farmstead, but an archaeological evaluation on the site in the early 21st century failed to confirm it as the site of a medieval manor house. It is possible that landscaping associated with the farmstead and 1960s school may have removed evidence for earlier settlement31.

Historic Landscape (map 12)

The historic landscape character is dominated by the historic core of the two villages of Gnosall and Audmore. Whilst Gnosall had its origins in at least the medieval period; Audmore was first recorded in the late 16th century32. The importance of Gnosall has been identified with the designation of the Conservation Area, where four Listed Buildings are also located. These buildings include a probable 18th century lock-up, which is also designated as a Scheduled Monument33.

Two of the Listed buildings relate to timber-framed properties which have been identified as having probable 16th and 17th century origins34. A further, unlisted, property on the High Street has also been identified as having probable 16th century origins. It is possible that further unlisted properties within the zone may contain elements of earlier buildings within their cores.

In Audmore several unlisted historic buildings survive, but their origins are not currently known. The settlement has been dispersed along the lane in the late 19th century, but a degree of infilling has occurred during the 20th century. Two historic farmsteads survive within Audmore, although both have seen significant alterations during the 20th century.

28 Staffordshire HER: PRN 02467 29 Heath 1974: 6 30 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00844 31 Staffordshire HER: PRN 53344 32 Horowitz 2005: 95 33 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00049; English Heritage SM no. 33 34 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08057 and PRN 12733

23 Historic Assets Summary Table

Survival The zone contains four Listed Buildings 3 (including one also protected as a Scheduled Monument) and the historic core of Gnosall is also covered by a Conservation Area. The street pattern is largely unchanged from at least the late 19th century. There has been some intensification of development during the 20th century. Potential There is the potential for archaeological 2 deposits to survive in the backplots relating to earlier settlement. There is also the potential for the historic buildings to retain structural elements pertaining to earlier buildings. Documentation HER data 1 Diversity The zone contains a wide range of historic 3 environment assets (HEAs) from historic buildings to the fossilised historic street pattern. Group Association There are a range of HEAs relating to the 3 village’s character which includes the Grade I Listed Church as well as the other surviving historic buildings and the layout of the street pattern. Amenity Value The historic environment does help to define 2 a sense of place for visitors and the local community. The amenity value of the zone could be enhanced through further interpretation. Sensitivity to change (to The zone is highly sensitive to medium to 3 housing expansion & large scale development, which would impact infrastructure for SBC) upon the Listed Buildings and the Conservation Area in particular. There is also the potential for below ground archaeological deposits to survive. Overall Score 17

Bibliography

Edwards, B. 2009. Historic farmsteads & landscape character in Staffordshire. Unpublished report.

Heath, P. 1974. ‘The Medieval Church’ in M. W. Greenslade (ed.) A History of the county of Staffordshire: volume III. Oxford University Press.

Horowitz, D. 2005. The place-names of Staffordshire. Privately published.

Lake, J. 2009. ‘Historic farmsteads: national context’ in B. Edwards Historic farmsteads & landscape character in Staffordshire. Unpublished report.

24 Midgley, L. M. 1958. ‘Gnosall’ in L. M. Midgley (ed.) A History of the County of Stafford Volume IV. Oxford University Press.

Map 10: Designations

25 This product includes mapping licensed from Ordnance Survey with the permission of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Office © Crown copyright and/or database right 2009. All rights reserved Licence number 100019422

Map 11: Known historic environment assets from the HER

26 This product includes mapping licensed from Ordnance Survey with the permission of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Office © Crown copyright and/or database right 2009. All rights reserved Licence number 100019422

Map 12: Refined HLC

27 GHECZ 6 – Gnosall Heath (HECA 33)

Summary

Gnosall Heath originated as a squatter settlement upon an area of heathland. The process of encroachment may have had its origins in at least the 16th century, but settlement was certainly present by the late 18th century. During the 20th century there has been development infill among the surviving historic buildings, but the overall irregular character of the settlement, along with the narrow lanes, is still legible.

• The impact upon the Conservation Area and the Listed Buildings.

• The impact upon the historic character of the settlement, which should be taken into account at the design stage of any development.

• The impact upon below ground archaeological deposits.

Early consultation with the Conservation Officer at Stafford Borough Council and the Cultural Heritage Team at Staffordshire County Council is advised.

Designations (map 13)

Part of the Shropshire Union Canal Conservation Area (081) crosses the zone on an approximate north to south alignment. A Grade II Listed canal bridge also lies within the zone35.

Archaeological Character (map 14)

The village of Gnosall lies to the north east of the zone, which was first recorded in Domesday Book (1086) where 12 heads of household were recorded36. It was held by a religious community which had probably been founded in the 10th century37.

35 Staffordshire HER: PRN 02931 36 Staffordshire HER: PRN 02467 37 Heath 1974: 6

28 Historic Landscape (map 15)

Gnosall Heath was an inhabited area by at least the late 18th century and it is clear from the character of the settlement, as shown in particular on the historic maps, that it originated as a squatter settlement38. Documentary evidence suggests that the heath land within Gnosall parish was being enclosed from at least 1580 and it is possible that the earliest encroachments within the zone date from this period39. Fines were being levied on illegal encroachments on Gnosall Heath between 1779 and 1858. Extant historic cottages, probably relating to the squatter encroachments, are dotted throughout the settled area in an irregular manner which is distinctive of this settlement. The settlement is also characterised by the narrow lanes linking the squatter enclosures which were present by at least the early 19th century. During the 20th century many of the squatter enclosures had been developed, including a small council housing estate constructed in the 1950s40.

An historic farmstead, Woodlands, survives on the far eastern edge of the zone. It has been identified as having a loose courtyard plan form. Loose courtyard farmsteads are not as easily dated; some examples across England have shown medieval origins although the majority appear to date between post medieval period and the 19th century41. The plan form does, however, suggest incremental development over a number of years if not centuries.

The zone is also crossed by two lines of transportation, both of which have their origins in the 19th century. The Birmingham to Liverpool Junction Canal was begun circa 1830 by the canal engineer Thomas Telford42. Fifteen years later it became part of a wider canal network known as the Shropshire Canals Union which went onto construct the Stafford to Wellington Railway line circa 1849, although by this time the railway line was leased to the London and North Western Railway (LNWR) Company43. The railway line crosses the canal to the north of the zone. The railway line closed to passengers in 1965, but survives as a substantial earthwork. The canal continues to enjoy increasing popularity among the pleasure boating fraternity and has been designated as Conservation Area which recognises its importance to the historic landscape.

Any expansion of settlement during the early 19th century is potentially linked to the establishment of these lines of transportation. An extant corn mill lies adjacent to the canal on the Newport Road (A518). It was constructed circa 1833 being powered by a steam engine and ceased operation circa 191744.

38 Squatter settlement: A site occupied by people who have no legal right to the land or buildings on it. (Scope note reproduced from the Thesaurus of Monument Types by kind permission of English Heritage © 2009)

39 Midgley 1958: 113 40 Midgley 1958: 112 41 Lake 2009: 19 42 Staffordshire HER: PRN 05238 43 Staffordshire HER: PRN 50655 44 Staffordshire HER: PRN 50127

29 To the north of the settlement 20th century housing has been constructed between the limits of the earlier settlement and the line of the railway.

Historic Assets Summary Table

Survival The zone has been impacted by 2 development, but the overall character of the original squatter settlement is still discernible through the surviving historic buildings and the irregular pattern of development. Potential The potential for below ground archaeological 2 deposits has been impacted by development, but opportunities for investigation may be obtainable on a site-by-site basis. Documentation HER data 1 Diversity There are a range of assets from historic 2 buildings, to the canal and surviving line of the railway. Group Association The irregular nature of the settlement is 2 closely associated with the narrow lanes. Its development during the 19th century is likely to be associated with the development of the canal and railway. Amenity Value The historic environment could help to define 2 a sense of place and both the canal and railway are promoted as amenities with the wider project area. Sensitivity to change (to The zone is at least moderately sensitive to 2 housing expansion & medium to large scale development, infrastructure for SBC) particularly in terms of the irregular pattern of development which has been inherited from its origins as a squatter settlement. In particular the impact upon the conservation area and listed building needs to be taken into account. Overall Score 13

Bibliography

Edwards, B. 2009. Historic farmsteads & landscape character in Staffordshire. Unpublished report.

Heath, P. 1974. ‘The Medieval Church’ in M. W. Greenslade (ed.) A History of the county of Staffordshire: volume III. Oxford University Press.

Lake, J. 2009. ‘Historic farmsteads: national context’ in B. Edwards Historic farmsteads & landscape character in Staffordshire. Unpublished report.

Midgley, L. M. 1958. ‘Gnosall’ in L. M. Midgley (ed.) A History of the County of Stafford Volume IV. Oxford University Press.

ty’s Office © Crown copyrightty’s Crown and/or Office © This product includesmapping licensed Survey the from with Ordnance permission Majes Controllerthe of Her of database All 2009. right rights reserved. numberLicence 100019422.

Map 13: Designations

ermission Majesty’s Controller copyright the Crown of and/or Her Office of © This product includesmapping licensed Survey the from with Ordnance p database All 2009. right rights reserved. numberLicence 100019422.

Map 14: Known historic environment assets from the HER

licensed from Ordnance Survey with the licensed Survey the from with Ordnance This product includesmapping permission Majesty’s Controllercopyright the Crown and/or of Her Officeof © database All 2009. rights right reserved. numberLicence 100019422.

Map 15: Refined HLC

33 GHECZ 7 – Gnosall Heath southern suburban expansion (HECA 5c)

Summary

The zone is dominated by 20th century housing which developed upon a field system which had its origins as medieval arable open fields45. The open field was probably enclosed during the Post Medieval period.

The early 19th century Shropshire Union canal survives and is designated as a Conservation Area and two Listed structures, a canal bridge and milepost, are associated with it.

• The impact upon the Conservation Area and Listed Buildings.

• The impact upon below ground archaeological deposits.

Early consultation with the Conservation Officer at Stafford Borough Council and the Cultural Heritage Team at Staffordshire County Council is advised.

Designations (map 16)

A section of the Shropshire Union Canal Conservation area crosses the zone on an approximately north east – south west alignment. Two listed buildings, associated with the canal, also lie within the zone.

Archaeological Character (map 17)

The village of Gnosall lies to the north east of the zone, which was first recorded in Domesday Book (1086) where 12 heads of household were recorded46. It was held by a religious community which had probably been founded in the 10th century47.

45 Open Field: An area of arable land with common rights after harvest or while fallow. Usually without internal divisions (hedges, walls or fences). (Scope note reproduced from the Thesaurus of Monument Types by kind permission of English Heritage © 2009) 46 Staffordshire HER: PRN 02467 47 Heath 1974: 6

34 Historic Landscape (map 18)

To the east of the zone lies the Birmingham to Liverpool Junction Canal crosses the zone on an approximate north west-south east alignment. It was begun circa 1830 by the canal engineer Thomas Telford48. Fifteen years later it became part of a wider canal network known as the Shropshire Canals Union. The Shropshire Union canal continues to enjoy increasing popularity among the pleasure boating fraternity and has been designated as Conservation Area which recognises its importance to the historic landscape. Also associated with the canal within the zone is a Grade II Listed canal bridge dating to circa 1829 to 1832 designed by Thomas Telford and a Grade II Listed canal milepost of circa 183549.

The remainder of the zone is dominated by mostly late 20th century housing estates. These houses were built upon a field system which had originated as arable open fields in the medieval period belonging to the medieval village of Gnosall. The open fields formed a pattern of arable agriculture, where two or more large un-hedged fields were divided into strips held by the local people. This was a system whereby everyone held at least one strip in each of the fields. The open fields were enclosed across Staffordshire from the late medieval period continuing into the late 18th century. It was carried out through a means of informal, verbal agreements between farmers who wished to consolidate their scattered holdings.

Historic Assets Summary Table

Survival The zone has been extensively disturbed by 1 20th century development. The canal survives as do two historic listed buildings and other historic environment assets (HEAs) may survive in other areas. Potential The potential for surviving Historic 1 Environment Assets (HEAs) has been significantly reduced by development, although areas of potential would be decided upon a site-by-site basis. Documentation HER data 1 Diversity The known HEAs relate to the early 19th 1 century Shropshire Union canal Group Association There are a few HEAS which are associated 1 with the canal Amenity Value The canal provides a sense of place within 2 the zone and is enjoyed as a public amenity.

48 Staffordshire HER: PRN 05238 49 Staffordshire HER: PRN 02930 and PRN 08070

Sensitivity to change (to Medium to large scale development is 1 housing expansion & unlikely to have a significant impact upon the infrastructure for SBC) historic environment of the zone. However, any development would need to consider the impact upon the Conservation Area and listed buildings. Overall Score 8

This product includesmapping licensed Survey the from with Ordnance permission Majesty’s Controllercopyright the Crown of and/or Her Office of © database All 2009. rights right reserved. numberLicence 100019422.

Map 16: Designations

from Ordnance Survey with the Survey the from with Ordnance

This product includesmapping licensed permission Majesty’s Controllercopyright the Crown of and/or Her Office of © database All 2009. rights right reserved. numberLicence 100019422.

Map 17: Known historic environment assets from the HER

This product includesmapping licensed Survey the from with Ordnance permissio Majesty’s Controllercopyright the Crown n of and/or Her Office of © database All 2009. rights right reserved. numberLicence 100019422.

Map 18: Refined HLC

39 GHECZ 8 – Cowley (HECA 5c)

Summary

The zone is dominated by a surviving post medieval field system, which is associated with Cowley, a hamlet of dispersed cottages and farmsteads, the earliest of which has its origins in the late 17th century. Watermeadows also survive in good condition in the north east corner of the zone.

The early 19th century Shropshire Union canal survives and is designated as a Conservation Area and three Listed structures are associated with it.

• The impact upon the Conservation Area and Listed Buildings.

• The impact upon the surviving historic landscape character which is comprised of the dispersed settlement of Cowley and surviving post medieval field pattern. Should any development been planned for this zone it would need to taken these aspects into account at the design stage.

• The impact upon below ground archaeological deposits.

Early consultation with the Conservation Officer at Stafford Borough Council and the Cultural Heritage Team at Staffordshire County Council is advised.

Designations (map 19)

The Shropshire Union Canal Conservation Area (081) crosses the zone on an approximately north west – south east alignment and four Grade II Listed structures, three canal bridges and a milepost, are associated with it. A further, Grade II Listed building, Walnut Tree Farmhouse, also lies within the zone50.

Archaeological Character (map 20)

The current understanding of the later prehistoric landscape of the country suggests that it had mostly been heavily wooded until the Bronze Age. Some clearance may have begun to take place by this period to support a small scale pastoral economy when humans were settling down to farm specific landscapes. However, little archaeological work has been carried out within the wider area to enable a more accurate picture of activity to be established.

50 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08065

40 Historic Landscape (map 21)

The historic landscape character of the zone is dominated by surviving piecemeal enclosure which was probably created in the post medieval period from a medieval open field system; documentary evidence suggests that within Gnosall parish the open fields were being enclosed from at least the late 17th century51. The open fields were a system of arable agriculture, where two or more large fields were divided into individual strips whereby the local people held scattered strips among them. It is possible that the open fields belonged, in part, to the inhabitants of Gnosall, which lies less than 1km to the north. However, it was probably also farmed by the local people who lived in Cowley, which is recorded in Domesday Book (1086) along with Beffcote. Both of these places belonged to the Royal manor of Penkridge at this date and are recorded along with five other places which collectively had around 28 households. By 1680 Cowley alone had twelve or fourteen houses52. Cowley has been identified as a potential deserted medieval settlement, but it is likely that it had always formed dispersed pattern in the landscape and even by the late 19th century there appears to have been around nine properties marked on the 2nd edition 6” OS map. The properties marked on this latter map appear to survive, although the farmsteads within the zone have all expanded to greater or lesser degrees during the 20th century. As a result of this there is the possibility that some of these historic buildings, which are at least 19th century in date, may retain elements of earlier buildings within their fabric.

There are four historic farmsteads within the zone, three of which have been identified as being of a regular courtyard plan form. These farmsteads have been identified nationally as generally post dating the 1790s53 and were often built in one phase. These three farmsteads were all present by the early 19th century, but it is possible that they represent the full or partial re-building of earlier complexes.

Walnut Tree Farm, to the north of the zone, has been identified as having a loose courtyard plan which are not as easily dated; some examples across England have shown medieval origins although the majority appear to date between post medieval period and the 19th century54. It is likely that this farmstead has its origins in at least the 17th century, as the Grade II Listed brick-built farmhouse has been dated to this period55. The plan form does, however, suggest incremental development over a number of years if not centuries. The landscape associated with this farmstead appears rectilinear in form, which may suggest that the landscape here was re-planned at a later date.

In the north east of the zone an area of water meadow survives in good condition. These features probably date to the 18th or 19th century and were

51 Midgley 1958: 113 52 Midgley 1958: 111 53 Lake 2009: 19 54 Lake 2009: 19 55 Staffordshire HER: PRN 08065 and MST 14191

41 developed to allow landowners to control the flooding of the land and ensure an early crop of grass and subsequent multiple crops for fodder. This enabled them to over-winter larger numbers of animals.

In the 19th century the irregular nature of the landscape was cut by the straight line of the Shropshire Union Canal56. The canal was constructed by the famous engineer Thomas Telford in the mid to late 1830s. It importance as an historic structure within the landscape has been recognised through its designation as a Conservation Area. Associated with the canal are four Grade II Listed structures; three bridges and a milepost57. Unlike earlier canals which tended to follow the contours of the land the construction of the Shropshire Union canal took advantage of technological advances to overcome topographical obstructions as its dead straight course illuminates. The canal cutting to the south of the 73m Cowley tunnel is typical of such innovations along the Shropshire Union58.

On the whole the historic landscape character and the associated dispersed settlement pattern, with cottages and farmsteads connected by narrow lanes remains clearly legible within the zone.

Historic Assets Summary Table

Survival The zone has moderate disturbance through 2 farming activities. Potential There is the potential for the elements of 2 earlier structures to survive within the known historic buildings. On the whole the zone has not been significantly disturbed and the current lack of knowledge may be the result of lack of investigation. Documentation HER data 1 Diversity There are a range of known historic 3 environment assets (HEAs) within the zone which include surviving historic field pattern of probable post medieval date and associated dispersed settlement pattern, earthworks associated with the watermeadows of 18th or 19th century and the surviving historic buildings. Group Association The evolution of change within the landscape 2 can be appreciated through an understanding of the processes of enclosure and settlement pattern. The relationship of the canal and its associated features are integral to the enjoyment of the landscape by its users. Amenity Value The canal provides a sense of place within 2 the zone and is enjoyed as a public amenity. Sensitivity to change (to The zone’s historic environment is highly 3

56 Staffordshire HER: PRN 05238 57 Staffordshire HER: PRNs 02927, 02928, 02930 and 08070 58 Staffordshire HER: PRN 02929

42 housing expansion & sensitive to medium to large scale change in infrastructure for SBC) terms of the legibility of the surviving historic landscape character and the associated dispersed settlement pattern. Impacts upon the conservation area and listed buildings would also need to be taken into account when making decisions on development within the zone. Overall Score 15

43 This product includes mapping licensed from Ordnance Survey with the permission of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Office © Crown copyright and/or database right 2009. All rights reserved. Licence number 100019422.

Map 19: Designations

44 This product includes mapping licensed from Ordnance Survey with the permission of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Office © Crown copyright and/or database right 2009. All rights reserved. Licence number 100019422. Map 20: Known historic environment assets from the HER

45 This product includes mapping licensed from Ordnance Survey with the permission of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Office © Crown copyright and/or database right 2009. All rights reserved. Licence number 100019422.

Map 21: Refined HLC

46 GHECZ 9 – The Hollies (HECA 5e)

Summary

The zone is dominated by field patterns which have been impacted through the removal of field boundaries during the 20th century. These fields had probably formed part of an open field system worked by the local inhabitants of Gnosall during the medieval period. Some of the surviving field boundaries may date to the post medieval period.

Hollies Farm is an historic farmstead of probable late 18th/19th century date, but whose origins may pre-date this period. The historic plan form of the farmstead survives.

Medium to large scale development within the zone is unlikely to have a significant impact on the historic environment of the zone. Should development be planned within the zone it would need to address impacts upon and potential mitigation strategies for:

• The surviving historic farmstead

• The impact upon the historic landscape character to the north east of the zone, which is probably associated with the early enclosure of a heath land.

• The impact upon below ground archaeological deposits.

Early consultation with the Conservation Officer at Stafford Borough Council and the Cultural Heritage Team at Staffordshire County Council is advised.

Designations

There are currently no designated sites lying within the zone.

Archaeological Character (map 22)

The village of Gnosall lies to the south east of the zone, which was first recorded in Domesday Book (1086) where 12 heads of household were recorded59. It was held by a religious community which had probably been founded in the 10th century60.

59 Staffordshire HER: PRN 02467 60 Heath 1974: 6

47 Historic Landscape (map 23)

The field system within the zone had its origins as an arable open field in the medieval period, which was probably associated with the village of Gnosall61. The open fields formed a pattern of arable agriculture, where two or more large un-hedged fields were divided into strips held by the local people. This was a system whereby everyone held at least one strip in each of the fields. The open fields were enclosed across Staffordshire from the late medieval period and continuing into the late 18th century. It was carried out through a means of informal, verbal agreements between farmers who wished to consolidate their scattered holdings. However, the field systems have been the subject of considerable boundary removal during the 20th century as a result of agricultural intensification.

Hollies Farm is the only historic farmstead within the character zone and it has been identified as having a regular courtyard plan form; such farmsteads have been identified nationally as post dating the 1790s62. Farmsteads of this plan- form were generally built in one phase, although it is possible that it replaced an earlier complex. The main barn within this complex is built of red brick, but has not been closely dated63.

Historic Assets Summary Table

Survival The zone has seen moderate disturbance 2 from modern farming practices particularly in the form of field boundary removal. Potential There are limited known historic environment 2 assets (HEAs) within the zone, however it has not been significantly disturbed and the current lack of knowledge is probably the result of lack of investigation rather than poor preservation. Documentation HER data 1 Diversity There are very few HEAs within the zone 1 other than the historic farmstead. Group Association It is possible that the origins of the farmstead 1 are associated with the field system, but this has not been proven. Amenity Value The historic environment does not lend itself 1 to display or visitor attraction. Sensitivity to change (to There is unlikely to be a significant impact 1 housing expansion & upon the historic environments of the zone. infrastructure for SBC) However, the historic landscape character to the north east of the zone (beyond the project area) is still legible within the landscape and any development within this zone should take into account the impacts upon the wider

61 Open Field: An area of arable land with common rights after harvest or while fallow. Usually without internal divisions (hedges, walls or fences). (Scope note reproduced from the Thesaurus of Monument Types by kind permission of English Heritage © 2009) 62 Lake 2009: 19 63 Staffordshire HER: PRN 51012

48 landscape. Overall Score 9

Map 22: Known historic environment assets from the HER

49 This product includes mapping licensed from Ordnance Survey with the permission of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Office © Crown copyright and/or database right 2009. All rights reserved. Licence number 100019422.

Map 23: Refined HLC

50 GHECZ 10 – Suburban expansion, Gnosall (HECA 5c)

Summary

The zone is dominated by 20th century housing which developed upon a field system which had its origins as medieval arable open fields64. The open field was probably enclosed during the Post Medieval period.

• The impact upon historic dispersed settlement pattern.

• The impact upon the surviving historic field pattern. Should any development be planned consideration at the design stage should be given to how the historic patterns could be retained or reflected.

• The impact upon below ground archaeological deposits.

Early consultation with the Conservation Officer at Stafford Borough Council and the Cultural Heritage Team at Staffordshire County Council is advised.

Designations

There are currently no designated sites lying within the zone. However, the Gnosall Conservation Area (034 ) lies adjacent (see GHECZ 5)

Archaeological Character (map 25)

The current understanding of the later prehistoric landscape of the country suggests that it had mostly been heavily wooded until the Bronze Age. Some clearance may have begun to take place by this period to support a small scale pastoral economy when humans were settling down to farm specific landscapes. The only evidence dating to the Roman period is a coin which was found in a garden during the 1940s. On the whole little archaeological work has been carried out and consequently the early history of the zone is poorly understood.

The village of Gnosall lies to the north east of the zone, which was first recorded in Domesday Book (1086) where 12 heads of household were recorded65. It was held by a religious community which had probably been founded in the 10th century66.

64 Open Field: An area of arable land with common rights after harvest or while fallow. Usually without internal divisions (hedges, walls or fences). (Scope note reproduced from the Thesaurus of Monument Types by kind permission of English Heritage © 2009) 65 Staffordshire HER: PRN 02467 66 Heath 1974: 6

51 Historic Landscape (map 26)

The zone is covered by mostly late 20th century housing estates. These houses were probably built upon a field system which had originated as arable open fields in the medieval period belonging to the medieval village of Gnosall. The open fields formed a pattern of arable agriculture, where two or more large un-hedged fields were divided into strips held by the local people. This was a system whereby everyone held at least one strip in each of the fields. The open fields were enclosed across Staffordshire from the late medieval period continuing into the late 18th century. It was carried out through a means of informal, verbal agreements between farmers who wished to consolidate their scattered holdings.

One historic farmstead had been located within the zone until the later 20th century when it appears to have been demolished. Brookhouse Farm has been identified as having had a regular courtyard plan. These were generally built in one phase during the late 18th or 19th century, but it is possible that it may have originated at an earlier period.

Historic Assets Summary Table

Survival The zone has been extensively disturbed by 1 20th century development. Potential The potential for surviving Historic 1 Environment Assets (HEAs) has been significantly reduced by development, although areas of potential would be decided upon a site-by-site basis. Documentation HER data 1 Diversity The are few known HEAs. 1 Group Association There are a few HEAS which are associated 1 with the canal Amenity Value The historic environment does not lend itself 1 to display or visitor attraction. Sensitivity to change (to Medium to large scale development is 1 housing expansion & unlikely to have a significant impact upon the infrastructure for SBC) historic environment of the zone. However, any development would need to consider the impact upon the adjacent Conservation Area. Overall Score 7

th permission the the of This product includesmapping licensed Survey fromOrdnance wi ControllerMajesty’s of Her Office copyright Crown © and/or database All 2009. right rights reserved. Licence number 100019422

Map 24: Known historic environment assets from the HER

53 er Majesty’s Office Office Majesty’s er

Map 25: Refined HLC

54 GHECZ 11 – East of Gnosall (HECA 5c)

Summary

The zone is dominated by a post medieval field pattern which had its origins as a medieval arable open field system67. There are eight historic farmsteads within the zone and three medieval moated sites presenting a dispersed settlement pattern, which is still legible within the modern landscape.

Medium to large scale development within the zone is likely to have at least a moderate impact on the historic environment of the zone. Should development be planned within the zone it would need to address impacts upon and potential mitigation strategies for:

• The impact upon historic dispersed settlement pattern.

• The impact upon below ground archaeological deposits.

Early consultation with the Conservation Officer at Stafford Borough Council and the Cultural Heritage Team at Staffordshire County Council is advised.

Designations

There are currently no designated sites lying within the zone.

Archaeological Character (map 27)

Brough Hall is recorded in Domesday Book (1086) where two villagers were recorded holding some arable land68. The zone also lies to the east of the village of Gnosall which was also recorded in Domesday Book where 12 heads of household were recorded69. It was held by a religious community which had probably been founded in the 10th century70.

Historic Landscape (map 28)

67 Open Field: An area of arable land with common rights after harvest or while fallow. Usually without internal divisions (hedges, walls or fences). (Scope note reproduced from the Thesaurus of Monument Types by kind permission of English Heritage © 2009) 68 Staffordshire HER: PRN 02398 69 Staffordshire HER: PRN 02467 70 Heath 1974: 6

The historic landscape character is dominated by surviving piecemeal enclosure which was probably created in the post medieval period from a medieval open field system. Within the zone there are also areas where the piecemeal enclosure has been impacted by the removal of field boundaries during the 20th century, particularly to the north and south of Audmore.

The open fields were a system of arable agriculture, where two or more large fields were divided into individual strips whereby the local people held scattered strips among them. Evidence of this form of arable agriculture was identified on aerial photographs taken in the early 1960s in the form of ridge and furrow71 earthworks to the north of Audmore and south of Pear Tree Bank, off the A518. It is likely that within this zone the open fields closest to Gnosall and Brough were farmed by the inhabitants of each settlement.

Three medieval moated sites lie within the zone. Beverley Hall just to the west of Gnosall which represents the site of one of the manor houses associated with a prebend within Gnosall church72. Brough Hall was recorded in Domesday Book and the moat here may represent the location of a later manor house associated with settlement73. A moat has also been recorded at Moor End, which is associated with another quite large area of former open fields, which survives as piecemeal enclosure74. It is possible that this represents an episode of assarting75 during the 12th or 13th century. Land at Moor end was recorded in 1341 or 134676.

There are eight historic farmsteads within the zone. Holly Farm represents a small farmstead, which may have early origins although currently little is known about the surviving historic buildings. Moor End Farm also originated as a small farmstead with a loose courtyard plan form, although it has expanded substantially during the 20th century. Loose courtyard farmsteads are not as easily dated; some examples across England have shown medieval origins although the majority appear to date between post medieval period and the 19th century77. The plan form does, however, suggest incremental development over a number of years if not centuries. The remainder of the farmsteads display a regular courtyard plan form. These farmsteads have been identified nationally as generally post dating the 1790s78 and were often built in one phase. These three farmsteads were all

71 Staffordshire HER: PRN 20370; Ridge & furrow: A series of long, raised ridges separated by ditches used to prepare the ground for arable cultivation. This was a technique, characteristic of the medieval period. (Scope note reproduced from the Thesaurus of Monument Types by kind permission of English Heritage © 2009) 72 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00843; Prebend: lands or salary granted to a canon of a cathedral or collegiate church. 73 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00848 74 Staffordshire HER: PRN 00849 75 Assarting: processes where fields are enclosed piecemeal in an area of woodland or heathland. Assarting occurred throughout the medieval period and later, but is particularly recorded in the 12th and 13th century in Staffordshire (cf Palliser 1976: 70-76). 76 Midgley 1958: 127 77 Lake 2009: 19 78 Lake 2009: 19

56 present by the early 19th century, but it is possible that they represent the full or partial re-building of earlier complexes. Ivy House Farm, originated as a small farmstead, and appears on Yates’ map of Staffordshire (1775) as ‘New House’ perhaps suggesting that a new holding had been created during the 18th century.

Historic Assets Summary Table

Survival The zone has seen moderate disturbance 2 from modern farming practices there has been some field boundary removal during the 20th century. Potential The zone has not been significantly disturbed 2 and the current lack of knowledge is probably the result of lack of investigation rather than poor preservation. There is the potential for below ground archaeology to survive associated with historic settlement and for elements of early buildings to survive in the fabric of the farmsteads. Documentation HER data 1 Diversity There are a range of HEAs in the form of 2 historic buildings, earthworks and the historic landscape character. Group Association The historic settlement pattern, particularly 2 the presence of Gnosall to the east, Brough Hall and the moated sites are associated with the origins of the field system, the legibility of which largely survives well. Amenity Value The historic environment does not lend itself 1 to display or visitor attraction.

Sensitivity to change (to Medium to large scale development is likely 2 housing expansion & to have at least a moderate impact upon the infrastructure for SBC) historic environment character of the zone, particularly upon the relationship between the settlement pattern and the historic field patterns. Overall Score 12

Map 27: Historic environment assets from the HER

58 This product includes mapping licensed from Ordnance Survey with the permission of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Office © Crown copyright and/or database right 2009. All rights reserved. Licence number 100019422.

Map 28: Refined HLC

59 GHECZ 12 – South of Lower Knightley (HECA 5e)

Summary

The field systems of the zone have been significantly impacted by the removal of field boundaries during the 20th century. At Knightley Green a group of earthworks survive which probably relate to medieval arable agricultural activities and possible settlement. An adjacent earthwork enclosure may be of prehistoric date.

• The impact upon the earthworks, particularly those located at Knightley Green.

• The impact upon below ground archaeological deposits.

Early consultation with the Conservation Officer at Stafford Borough Council and the Cultural Heritage Team at Staffordshire County Council is advised.

Designations (map 29)

There are currently no known designated sites lying within the zone.

Archaeological Character (map 30)

The village of Gnosall lies to the south of the zone, which was first recorded in Domesday Book (1086) where 12 heads of household were recorded80. It was held by a religious community which had probably been founded in the 10th century81.

Historic Landscape (map 31)

There is evidence with the zone for former medieval open fields to have once existed. Ridge and furrow earthworks were identified upon aerial photographs taken in the 1960s to the west of Moor End moated site (which lies in GHECZ

79 Staffordshire HER: PRN 04433 80 Staffordshire HER: PRN 02467 81 Heath 1974: 6

60 11) 82. To the north of the zone, at Knightley Green, a complex of earthworks has been identified which also included ridge and furrow earthworks, along with a fishpond and hollow way83.

The historic landscape character has been impacted by the removal of field boundaries during the 20th century.

Historic Assets Summary Table

Survival The zone has seen moderate impact from 2 agricultural activities, although there are several known historic environment assets (HEAs). Potential There are a number of HEAs within the zone, 2 surviving as earthworks. There is the potential for other archaeological remains to be associated with these features. Documentation HER data 1 Diversity There are a range of HEAs of including 2 earthworks of probably different dates. Group Association There are a few HEAS of similar date, in the 1 form of the earthworks at Knightly Green. Amenity Value The historic environment does not lend itself 1 to display or visitor attraction. Sensitivity to change (to There is unlikely to be a significant impact 1 housing expansion & upon the historic landscape character of the infrastructure for SBC) zone, which has seen considerable field boundary loss. However, there is the potential for specific HEAs to be impacted, particularly in the north of the zone. Overall Score 10

82 Staffordshire HER: PRN 20374; Ridge & furrow: A series of long, raised ridges separated by ditches used to prepare the ground for arable cultivation. This was a technique, characteristic of the medieval period. (Scope note reproduced from the Thesaurus of Monument Types by kind permission of English Heritage © 2009). 83 Staffordshire HER: MST 14741

61 This product includes mapping licensed from Ordnance Survey with the permission of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Office © Crown copyright and/or database right 2009. All rights reserved. Licence number 100019422.

Map 29: Historic environment assets from the HER

62 This product includes mapping licensed from Ordnance Survey with the permission of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Office © Crown copyright and/or database right 2009. All rights reserved. Licence number 100019422.

Map 30: Refined HLC