2008:326 - A1 Scheme 1, Newry, Carnmeen – Site 6 (Area 41), Down

Carnmeen, Site 6, was investigated as part of archaeological mitigation strategy for the construction of a new bypass around Newry, Co. Down/Armagh (A1 Scheme 1). It consisted of an area of archaeological deposits which had been identified during topsoil-stripping. The site was located towards the bottom of a north-west-facing slope. The northern strip of Site 6 was excavated in November 2007 followed by the southern strip between January and April 2008. These two strips were separated by a mound of spoil.
The pattern of cultural history for the region shows there has been intensive occupation right through from early times, with known archaeological sites ranging from the Neolithic to mills which remained in use until only 100 years ago. Within Carnmeen townland there are a total of eight sites in the NISMR. Five of these are standing stones, two are sites identified from aerial photographs and the last is the Newry Canal.
Evidence of activity in the form of pits was recorded across the site. A total of 36 pit features were excavated, located largely within the southern strip of the site. The majority of the pits were fairly shallow and isolated, however some concentrations were observed.
Series of stake- and post-holes were excavated and, as with the pits, many of them are isolated. Several clusters of post-holes were noted, however, although most of them do not seem to form any apparent alignment. Three of the post-holes in the eastern end of the southern strip appear to form an east to west alignment, and may represent a fence line.
Several linear features were also recorded. These are probably agricultural in origin and character and likely to represent post-medieval field ditches and furrows.