2017:447 - BALLYMENA: Saint Patricks Barracks, Townparks, Antrim

An archaeological evaluation was carried out prior to the proposed re-development of the site of St Patrick’s Barracks, Ballymena. Part of the proposed scheme is the introduction of a new southern feeder road into the site. The proposed route of this road passes ANT 32:30. The full extent of this monument is difficult to ascertain and it is unclear as to whether the preferred design of the road will have a physical impact on it. An archaeological evaluation was therefore conducted to establish the outer extent of the monument.

Three test trenches were excavated by mechanical digger fitted with a toothless bucket. The depths of the trenches varied slightly across the site between 0.8m and 0.4m. The trenches were excavated through a loose sandy clay topsoil which gave way to a compact orange clay.

The trenches identified no further archaeological deposits within the area extending beyond the mound.