Watching Brief at Ivy House

The work was undertaken adhering to an approved Written Scheme of Investigation produced by Arthian (formerly Mabbett & Associates Ltd (CE-IH-2185-RP02). An experienced archaeologist was present for the duration of the excavation. The Site was excavated to a depth of 1.4-1.6m below present ground level by a 360� tracked excavator under archaeological supervision; the removed overburden was disposed of by dumpers and stacked in separate bunds by material. The overburden also included demolition material, such as fragmented bricks and concrete. Elements of the curtilage listed outbuildings for Ivy House were removed at the same time as the overburden was removed. The work was carried out to monitor and record any below ground archaeological remains within the Site, as well as monitor and record the removal of elements of the curtilage listed outbuildings. This work followed a Level 2 Building Recording, which was undertaken by Crestwood Environmental Ltd in 2023. The investigation comprised the monitoring of the removal of overburden. No archaeological deposits or artefactual evidence were recovered; the overburden appeared to be a mixed, modern deposit, which was likely disturbed or added to multiple times, as demolition rubble, such as scrap metal or brick fragments, was common throughout. The partial demolition of the later outbuildings, which abutted the barn to the southeast of Ivy House, revealed further data about the development of the barn: namely that it formerly had two parallel openings, which were both infilled or blocked at a later date, when it ceased to be used for agricultural purposes. The two doorways indicate that its original use was likely as a cart shed, or possibly as a threshing barn. The investigation was undertaken in favourable conditions and the results are considered to be reliable.