Land at Burytown Lane, Blunsdon, Swindon: Archaeological Evaluation

This work was undertaken in accordance with current best practice, CIfA guidelines and a Written Scheme of Investigation (WSI) (Boyd 2024) drawn up in consultation with the Devon County Historic Environment Team (DCHET). Any desk-based assessment aspect of this report follows the guidance as outlined in: Standard and Guidance for Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment (CIfA 2020a) and Understanding Place: historic area assessments (Historic England 2017). The archaeological evaluation follows the guidance as outlined in: Archaeologists Standards and Guidance for Archaeological Field Evaluation (CIfA 2020b) and Standard and Guidance for an archaeological Watching Brief (CIfA 2020c). The evaluation trenches were laid out across the site, avoiding standing trees and targeting features identified by the GPS survey, located across the footprint of the proposed structures and areas likely to be disturbed by the proposed development (see Figure 5). The coordinates for the ends of each excavated trench can be found in Appendix 3. Eight evaluation trenches, totalling c.87m, were excavated across the site. These targeted anomalies identified on the previous GPR survey and general site coverage. In the southern part of the site the evaluation revealed four ditches, and an area with a spread, an associated posthole and a possible stakehole. The spread contained one sherd of probable Romano-British pottery and the ditches either contained or were associated with Romano-British pottery and a struck flint; all the Romano-British pottery was small and abraded, indicating it was residual. A large number of post-medieval and modern drains crossed this part of the site. In the northern part of the site the evaluation revealed modern made ground and the concrete slab for a yard area associated with structures along the lane shown on historic mapping. This area appears to have been terraced and built up and it is likely that any archaeological features will have been truncated or destroyed. Given the results of this evaluation, it is recommended that as part of any planning conditions for proposed development of this site that further archaeological monitoring would be appropriate. It is felt that a strip, map and sample (SMS) exercise, of an area of perhaps c.10m� area around the north half of Trench #1 and the south-east end of Trench #3, with the option to extending depending on results, would determine relationships, extent and provide adequate dating of the identified archaeological resource/features. However, the location and line of overhead cables may limit the extent of investigation.

Two trenches were positioned within the PDA, with some adjustments due to the position of piles of brush and to try and avoid some of the more obvious dumps of redeposited material visible at ground level. Trench 1 was completed however Trench 2 had a greater depth of redeposited loose material and was investigated in a series of test pits machined to natural along its length. An additional test pit was excavated between Trenches 1 and 2 to compare the depth of overburden and reveal any potential buried soils In September 2022, Network Archaeology undertook an archaeological evaluation in advance of the erection of a new care home and associated residential dwellings on land adjacent to Cain Road, Bracknell, Berkshire (NGR: 484738,169249). The evaluation comprised the excavation of two 50m long trenches and was undertaken in order to inform the Berkshire Archaeology Officer advising Bracknell Forest Council (BFC). The evaluation identified that there is a considerable depth of made ground across the site comprising redeposited soil and loose demolition waste overlying remnant subsoil and natural geology, which is noted at c.68.34-68.75m OD. This extended to approximately 1.9- 2m across much of the development area. Across the western side of the site, an apparent former surface formed from crushed stone and brick rubble was revealed c.1m below the current ground surface and may represent a former construction compound. No archaeology was identified and only modern artifacts noted although the presence of subsoil and natural clay within parts of the Site suggests that archaeological features and/or deposits may potentially exist within undisturbed areas of the Site.

Many integrated conservation and development projects use road construction to induce a shift in income activities, since road access can reduce both poverty and environmental degradation. There is, however, little empirical evidence on the effects of road access on income patterns. We contribute to existing literature by analyzing the effects of road access on income activity choice in Korup National Park, Cameroon using a difference-in-difference approach. Road access led to a rise in total household income by 38% due to higher household participation in self-employment and wage labor. We neither found an effect on income from crop farming nor on participation in hunting activities. The effects of road access can be diverse and unforeseeable. Road construction in protected areas should thus be carefully considered and planned and only be implemented when other options are not feasible.

This paper summarises the findings of two evaluations carried out in public spaces in the Leith area, both of which were specifically designed to establish the survival or otherwise of remains relating to the siege of Leith in 1560. Between 6 and 10 November 2006 a trial trenching evaluation was carried out within Pilrig Park to the south of the French citadel to 'ground truth' geophysical anomalies identified during a previous phase of work (Banks et al. 2006) and also to establish the character of topographic features on the ground. The main aim of the project was to establish the presence or absence of remains related to the siege fort known as Somerset's Mount which from a map drawn in 1560 is known to have been located in the vicinity. The evaluation identified the remains of a WWII air raid shelter, the remains of a building associated with Pilrig House demolished sometime in the early to mid 19th century, and a possible ditch associated with the fort, into which several archaeological features including the foundation slot of a small building or other structure and a probable blacksmith's forge had been cut.The second part of this report concerns the evaluation at Leith Links, around 1 km to the north east of Pilrig Park and to east of the French citadel. A week long evaluation similar to that carried out at Pilrig took place in April 2007, the aim being to locate further evidence for siege works. Once again, attention focussed on geophysical anomalies resulting from the previous survey. The Links are traditionally associated with the siege through the presence of two mounds, which at least since the 19th century have been identified as the platforms for siege guns directed against the eastern face of the French citadel. An area between the two mounds, which are scheduled ancient monuments, was trial trenched along with an area further to the north. Only the latter produced physical remains which seem to relate to the 1560 map. These took the form of an earthen bank and possibly related ditches which run along the same alignment as a feature shown on the early map, though there is some question as to its function.

Twenty-eight trenches were opened mechanically under archaeological supervision and potentially archaeological features investigated by hand. No archaeological deposits or features were observed; Several areas had been truncated and filled in modern times. Five struck flints were the only finds recovered, all from subsoil.

In order to determine the archaeological risk posed by a proposal to develop land at The Royal George PH, 57 High Street, Stagsden Bedfordshire, the Heritage Network was commissioned by the developers to undertake a programme of archaeological evaluation. Four trial trenches were opened across the proposed development area. The investigation showed that the southern side of the site has been subject to post-medieval and modern disturbance. The majority of the dateable features encountered on the site were of the modern period. These include two postholes in Trench 1, cuts [102] and [105], demolition debris and modern disturbance in Trench 2 and the car park surface, contexts (400) and (401) for the former Royal George public house in Trench 4. The remaining features and layers, including cut [303] in Trench 3 and layer (403) in Trench 4 appear to date to the post-medieval period, indicated by the presence of brick fragments in both the upper fill of [303] and in layer (403). Two possible natural features were also observed in Trench 1, cuts [104] and [107]. These are likely to represent root action in the rear garden of the former public house.

Проанализирована дорожно-транспортная инфраструктура Орловской области на федеральном и региональном уровнях по таким показателям, как протяженность, плотность, техническое состояние и доступность для населения автомобильных дорог местного значения, а также автобусного сообщения. Приведено сравнение с мировыми показателями за аналогичный период (2005 – 2015 гг.). Также проанализированы объем выделенных субсидий на софинансирование расходов субъектов РФ на строительство и реконструкцию автомобильных дорог общего пользования с твердым покрытием и их плотность; доля автомобильных дорог общего пользования, не отвечающих нормативным требованиям; численность погибших и раненых в результате дорожно-транспортных происшествий; сельские населенные пункты, не имеющие связи по дорогам с твердым покрытием, с сетью дорог общего пользования региона; доля населения, проживающего в населенных пунктах, не имеющих регулярного автобусного и (или) сообщения с административным центром муниципального района, в общей численности муниципального района. На примере Орловской области представлен стратегический SWOT-анализ развития транспортной инфраструктуры, а также предложены направления дальнейшего стратегического развития данного направления. Рассмотрены результаты господдержки в виде софинансирования расходов субъектов РФ на строительство и реконструкцию автомобильных дорог общего пользования с твердым покрытием. Показано, что во всех регионах Центрального федерального округа, в том числе и Орловской области, существуют схожие проблемы развития дорожно-транспортной инфраструктуры сельских территорий. Наиболее остро стоит проблема строительства проселочных дорог, приближенных по комфортности к дорогам регионального значения, что требует эффективной реализации действующих программ развития села.

The evaluation fieldwork comprised the excavation of 38 trenches, each measuring 30m x 1.8m. The trenches were located to test geophysical anomalies and to provide a 3% representative sample of the remainder of the site. In August and September 2024, Cotswold Archaeology carried out an archaeological evaluation of Land at Barkham Farm, Covid Memorial Woodland, Wokingham, Berkshire. A total of 38 trenches were excavated. Of the 38 trenches opened, only 11 identified archaeological remains. The evaluation revealed twelve undated shallow features, all likely to represent post-medieval/modern field boundaries and drainage ditches. All targeted geophysical anomalies identified by the geophysical survey were identified as changes in the natural substrate, with no alignment to archaeological or modern features. Geological and natural features were all tested across the site.

In line with the global goals for sustainable development (SDG goals), UNWTO has emphasized sustainable tourism development for achieving SDGs targets in the member countries. Bangladesh has already identified tourism as a thrust sector for the development of the country. The present study identifies the opportunities and contributions of tourism activities for achieving SDGs in Bangladesh. This study analyses the existing tourism policies and plans, government regulations, reports, and SDG related practices to attain the objectives. It is observed that SDG goals number 8, 12, and 14 are directly related to tourism. Furthermore, tourism can contribute to achieving some other SDG goals, like 3, 11, and 15. The study reveals that the contributions of tourism to GDP and employment are in an increasing trend. Sustainable Consumption and Production practices are encouraging the tourism businesses to include nature and biodiversity conservation in their management plans. Marine tourism development in the Bay-of-Bengal can play a positive role in reducing the negative impact of climate change and sustainable use of the oceans, seas, and marine resources. The study reveals that sustainable tourism development through cultural, religious, and archeological features can make Dhaka a stable and sustainable city. The study shows that sustainable tourism development in protected areas can ensure the preservation of forest areas, protect biodiversity conservation and provide sustainable use of natural resources. Sustainable tourism development can ensure long-term social, economic, and environmental benefits to all stakeholders to contribute a sustainable development in Bangladesh.

Understanding visitor travel patterns within parks and protected areas has continually been recognized as beneficial for managers. This information can identify high-use areas and locations of potential conflicts. However, visitor travel patterns can be difficult to understand in parks and protected areas that lack organizational infrastructure, such as trails, roads, or signs (e.g., open deserts and marine environments). In this article, we demonstrate a digital grid analysis of travel patterns at the Bonneville Salt Flats Special Recreation Management Area, Utah, a vast desert expanse where trails, roads, or wayfinding signs do not exist and there is no vehicular speed limit. Data were collected using GPS data loggers and analyzed using ArcGIS. We first conducted spatial descriptive analysis to understand mean center point, median center point, directional distribution, and central line feature. Mean center point and median center point were reported in decimal degrees, which can be inputted into any smartphone or GPS unit for navigation. Using ArcMap, we designed a digital grid that overlaid the study site. The grid provided insight into spatial variations of visitor use and vehicle speeds. Using hot spot analysis, we determined areas where high use and high vehicle speeds were coinciding, which informed a spatial grouping analysis to identify areas for future monitoring. Monitoring areas are reported using navigation directions for easy location. We identified two areas where high use and high vehicle speeds coincide. Both of these areas are near the end of the access road, which suggests some visitors drive fast immediately upon entering the Bonneville Salt Flats. This finding led us to recommend managers put a speed limit zone near the access road for visitor safety. The findings of this study demonstrate the utility of grid analysis for advancing understanding of spatial variations, visitor travel patterns, and identifying priority areas to monitor in a dispersed recreation environment.

This paper deals with the environmental problems related to Petroleum Exploration Programs (P E, P) in Madagascar and measures taken, in short terms, to minimize environment degradation resulting from these. PEP concerns the three main western sedimentary basins (Ambilobe Basin - Majunga Basin - Morondava basin) -Fig.2- of which 12% of the surface are classified as "protected area" (forests, parks, reserves) in respect of the richness and rareness of wildlife species. PEP's operations (seismic survey and drilling wells), when conducted in these zones, affect the system (access road, people migration), leading to the degradation of the wildlife. For petroleum companies working in those zones, some appropriate measures (adequacy of equipment, engagement to restore damages, environment study) were required before concerned administration could grant the agreement. One example of specific environment damages caused by Petroleum Exploration Operations is mentionned in this paper.

Magnetic and electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) surveys were carried out in the area of a Roman military installation located near the Zeugma archaeological site in southeastern Turkey. Magnetic gradiometer surveys were performed in the northern part of this area and covered 8.52 ha; measurements were obtained using a FM‐36 fluxgate gradiometer on a 0.5 × 1 m grid. The visualized data revealed the general orientation of the Roman military settlement, which appeared as regular structures in the magnetic images. In addition, ERT surveys were performed in some areas that had shown regular magnetic anomalies. Resistivity data were interpreted using the robust inversion algorithm in two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional forms. Resistivity tomography studies showed that the archaeological structures lay close to the surface. There was considerable agreement between the results of the magnetic and ERT survey methods. Trial trenches were excavated in promising areas to test the geophysical results. A range of distinctive elements of military settlement, such as walls, pipes, roads, foundations and also metallic objects (a large assemblage of Roman military helmets and armour) were discovered during the excavations. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Carbon storage in terrestrial ecosystems plays a vital role in climate control. However, urban expansion and damage to natural areas, especially the rise of megalopolises, have affected carbon storage. To mitigate this damage, various policies have been established by international, domestic, and local governments. This study focuses on the establishment and management of environmental protection areas and analyzes their impact on carbon storage. The study targets the cities of Gyeonggi-do province, South Korea, which make up a representative megalopolis, and the effectiveness of protected areas was analyzed by typifying the cities based on the proportion of available development areas and environmentally protected areas. In this study, the SLEUTH (Slope, Land-use, Excluded Area, Urban, Transportation, Hillshade) land-use change model was used to predict future land-use changes, and carbon storage was estimated using the InVEST (Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Tradeoffs) Carbon model. When operating the model, we tested a control group scenario that only preserves the water zone, a scenario that preserves the legally protected areas, and a scenario that protects the areas with high environmental value. There are two significant effects of setting up protected areas: First, the “development inhibition effect” of reducing the development area itself. Second, the “development replacement effect” of moving development to relatively low environmental value areas. These two effects differ depending on the availability of development areas, with “development replacement effects” prominent in areas with high development availability and “development inhibition effects” predominant in areas with low development availability. Future policies for setting up and managing protected areas can be used in megalopolis in conjunction with policies focusing on securing the area of carbon sinks.

Appropriate ecotourism planning is crucial for sustainable ecotourism development in developing countries including Laos. The primary objective of this research was to identify the potential sites for ecotourism in order to assist in planning and decision making to ensure the sustainable natural forest resource management. GIS data analysis was undertaken to assess the potential sites for ecotourism. We used seven factors describing biophysical characteristics; forest cover, water, elevation, slope, proximity to village, road accessibility and historical attractive sites. It was found that there is around 1200 ha of the entire area of Xaisomboun province which is the most suitable for inland recreational activities, about 1980 ha for beautiful ecological sceneries, roughly 1143 ha for historical tourism activity sites, and finally 1031 ha of a total area that most suitable for multipurpose ecotourism activities. These most suitable areas are located mostly in the protected areas, dense forests and high value of natural resources. These are also major attractions for historical and country revolutions. There is a need to incorporate appropriate infrastructures and local engagement and services. The result is useful for ecotourism development and great benefit in terms of sustainable social-economic development, conservation of biodiversity and other ecosystem services.

It is a hot issue of current research that how to strengthen the land use management, so that resources and environmental capacity, land development costs and industrial construction and agricultural production would be spatial balanced to promote regional sustainable development in rapid urbanization and industrialization process. A Case Study in Langfang city of Hebei province was made. Based on equilibrium theory, the evaluation index system of land ecological and land development were made. According to the four principles of the unique highest ecological protection degree, low-benefit subject to high efficiency, land ecological protection would be considered under the higher conditions, land development would be considered under the general conditions, the two-dimensional correlation matrix of the land use ecological protection and development degree was built up in order to realize the land use guide regionalization. Then, in ArcGIS, 100 meters * 100 meters as a unit, land use development and ecological protection index were measured by grid computing and the land use guide regionalization was implemented through index rating-reassignment - grid computing - reclassification process in the study area. The study area was divided into four districts: key development areas, appropriate development areas, appropriate protective areas and key protective areas. Besides, different development strategies were provided for respective development areas. In key development areas, spots - axis development model was choused. In appropriate protective areas, intensive use pattern of development, which means protection of priority and appropriate development, is more reasonable. While key protective areas should adopt the ease with protected mode to strictly control the constructive land development for protecting the ecological services function. The study results show that: 1) the matrix of land use ecological protection-development degree is an effective method of land use guide classification. 2) the calculation results of the land use ecological protection and land use development degree directly affect the classification results. 3) the thinking and contents of the regionalization indices system can be extended.