2011:359 - HALVERSTOWN AND KILGOWAN, Kildare

Testing was undertaken within the footprint of the proposed M9 Kilcullen Service Area in the townlands of Halverstown and Kilgowan. The assessment was undertaken on behalf of the National Roads Authority and took place between 30 May and 3 June 2011.
A total of 8,304 linear metres were excavated within the footprint of the proposed service area. Six archaeological sites were discovered during the course of the works (Kilgowan 15 and Halverstown 1).
Halverstown 1 consisted of a series of pits and linear features, a heavy charcoal staining and evidence of in situ burning. Kilgowan 1 comprised a subcircular burnt mound measuring 17.4m east–west by 16.8m. Kilgowan 2 consisted of a series of pits and linear features containing medieval pottery identified on top of a gravel/sand ridge. Kilgowan 3 consisted of two east/west-aligned linear ditches running across a gravel ridge. Medieval pottery sherds were recovered from the fills of one of the ditches. Kilgowan 4 consisted of five isolated small pits, a possible post-hole and a small pit/post-hole located across one field. One of the pits contains small sherds of prehistoric pottery. Kilgowan 5 consisted of a subcircular burnt mound.
These sites were excavated by Tim Coughlan between July and October 2011 (below, Nos 360 and 362–6; E4385E4390).

Irish Archaeological Consultancy Ltd, 120b Greenpark Road, Bray, Co. Wicklow