EDO5426 - Coppice Street, Shaftesbury; observations and recording 2003 to 2004

AOC Archaeology Group conducted an archaeological watching brief during groundworks associated with the development of a new Tesco Supermarket and car park at Coppice Street, Shaftesbury (Planning Application 2/2002/1155). Work took place at various times between November 2003 and June 2004, and revealed significant activity from the Early Bronze Age and Saxon to medieval periods. Features recorded included a circular posthole structure, radiocarbon dated to 1880-1640BC, and interpreted as a timber circle or related ceremonial monument, though the possibility that it may be an early roundhouse is not dismissed. Another notable feature is a Saxon kiln, with the remains of its last firing still in place, and thought to date to the early to mid 9th century. In addition, evidence of late Saxon and early medieval domestic occupation was revealed on the western side of the site, closest to the core of the medieval town. The most intense domestic activity was pre-Conquest. Though features had been truncated by later activity, the remains of pits, wells and enclosure ditches survived, and agricultural land divisions which continued after occupation had ceased. Sizeable domestic rubbish assemblages were recovered, and there was evidence of iron working in the vicinity. The domestic pottery assemblage is regarded as significant and a Saxon pottery kiln, with the contents of the last firing intact, was radiocarbon dated to between AD660 and AD870. [1]