2015:063 - Garraí na dTor, An Bhánóg Theas, Baile na Saor Íochtarach, Baile na Saor Bheag, Ballyknockane and Ballygarret, Kerry

Stage (i) archaeological services were carried out in advance of the N86 Lispole to Ballynasare Lower and Ballygarret to Camp Road Improvement Scheme, Co. Kerry. The testing was carried out under Ministerial Direction No. A070 and Excavation Registration No.: E4617 between 29 June and 9 July, 2015.

A total of 11,614 square metres (5,807 linear metres) of test trenches were excavated across the scheme. Due to the presence of Japanese Knotweed at two locations the test trenches were moved to avoid disturbing their root systems. A wetland area was crossed at Baile na Saor Bheag that could not be tested as it was identified as a wildlife habitat. It was located west of a stream that comprised the townland boundary with An Bhánóg Theas. Two fields at the east of the scheme in Ballinknockane could not be tested due to access issues and the presence of mature vegetation. Six sites were identified:

An Bhánóg Theas (Banoge South) 1 was identified as a probable occupation layer contained within a rectangular area of in-situ burning. A disused 18th-century roadway is recorded to the north of this site within the Lands Made Available. This road was constructed in a cut and has flanking banks and ditches and will be recorded as part of the Stage 3 works.

An Bhánóg Theas (Banoge South) 2 was identified as a rectangular pit containing charcoal.

Baile na Saor Bheag (Ballynasare Beg) 1 was identified as very disturbed burnt mound.

Baile na Saor Bheag (Ballynasare Beg) 2 was identified as a cluster of pits.

Baile na Saor Bheag (Ballynasare Beg) 3 was identified as a curving ditch.

Ballinknockane 1 was identified as a rectangular pit containing charcoal.

IAC Ltd, Unit G1, Network Enterprise Park, Kilcoole, Co. Wicklow