2009:364 - OLDTOWN, SWORDS, Dublin

An assessment of a proposed development site on the Rathbeale road included a geophysical survey (R217) and the excavation of test-trenches. The geophysical survey did not identify any archaeological features. However, previous investigations in the adjoining lands which included geophysical survey (R95) and archaeological assessment by Christine Baker and William O. Frazer (Excavations 2003, No. 654, 03E1080, and Excavations 2007, No. 534, 06E0578 ext.) had identified an archaeological complex to the east and south-east of the current testing area. This complex comprised a large trivallate early medieval enclosure and associated field systems. There was a burial-ground within the inner enclosure and several of the smaller field ditches identified during previous testing extend into the north-eastern corner of the proposed development site. No further test-trenches were excavated in this area and the only feature uncovered during this phase of testing was a drainage ditch of unconfirmed date. The north–south-orientated ditch had been identified by the geophysical survey R217. It was located on the north-eastern end of the testing area and measured 0.7m wide and 0.4m deep. It had a U-shaped profile and was filled with orange sandy silt but contained no finds. The only artefact uncovered was an ex situ sherd of North Devon gravel-free ware which came from topsoil on the western end of the site. Testing indicated that much of the proposed development site had been disturbed by the insertion of services and works associated with the existing playing pitches on the southern end of the site and the road to the north.