2010:462 - Marshes Upper, Dundalk, Louth

Testing was undertaken on Phase 2b of a proposed development in the townland of Marshes Upper, Dundalk, Co. Louth, in January 2010. There are no known monuments within the site boundary, although it lies within an area of high archaeological potential. Development in the wider area over the past number of years has uncovered significant amounts of archaeology dating to both the prehistoric and historic periods. A geophysical survey was carried out in late 2009 (09R0200) and a number of isolated pit-type responses were identified from within the application area. These were interpreted as possible ephemeral archaeological remains or geological/natural or agricultural features. Testing focused on the areas of potential highlighted by the geophysical survey. Fourteen trenches of varying lengths were excavated and possible features were investigated in order to determine their nature and origin. Results confirmed that the area is reclaimed marshland, with a very shallow layer of topsoil overlying alluvial deposits. Seams of natural shale outcrop also occur at intervals. The features identified in the trenches were all associated with modern agricultural and drainage activities, which was consistent with the results of the geophysical survey. In situ artifacts confirmed that these features were modern in date.