EDO5727 - Hengistbury Head, Bournemouth; geophysical survey 2001

GSB Prospection carried out a geophysical survey of a site immediately east of the Double Dykes, Hengistbury Head as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment of the proposed site of a new Outdoor Education and Field Studies Centre. An area of about 5.15 hectares was initially subjected to rapid magnetic scanning with three areas (A-C) totalling about 2.2 ha selected for detailed gradiometer survey, centred on areas relatively free of obstructions. The rapid scanning indicated a relatively quiet background magnetic response but with extensive areas of magnetic disturbance from services, golfing features, etc. Area A was on the edge of the golf course and a number of non-archaeological anomalies were detected. Two anomalies of possible archaeological origin were identified: a linear anomaly oriented roughly WNW-ESE in the northern part of the area and an area of burnt material or of industrial character further south and another pit-like response of uncertain archaeological origin. Area B was on the pitch and putt course and a number of pit-type and linear anomalies were identified but could not be interpreted with any degree of confidence because of landscaping. Area C lay adjacent to the Hengistbury Head Terminus Building and were dominated by modern magnetic disturbance and a probable pipe or service. (1)