2017:211 - DUBLIN: Old Naas Road, Bluebell, Dublin

Pre-development testing of a site, known as Bluebell Lodge, off the old Naas Road in Dublin 12, took place on 28 and 29 September 2017. The testing was a recommendation of Dublin City Council and was carried out in advance of a planning application for the proposed development. The assessment was necessary due to the proximity of the proposed development to a church (DU018-033001) and graveyard (DU018-033002). The site was located to the east of the northern end of a lane off the Old Naas Road. It contained a two-storey dwelling (of the Arts and Crafts style) dating to the early 20th century, two modern outbuildings, an overgrown small garden and a tarmac parking/turning area. To the west of the north side of the lane was a modern car port which was also part of the development. To the north of the lane was Bluebell graveyard.

Testing consisted of the excavation (by machine) of three trenches in those areas of the site which were accessible. The trenches measured 7.2m, 7m and 14m long respectively, 0.95–1.2m wide and 0.6–0.9m deep. The stratigraphy consisted of modern surfaces, i.e. paving, tarmac and concrete above topsoil and disturbed topsoil above natural subsoils. Only modern artefacts were recovered. Nothing of archaeological significance was in evidence. Due to the proximity of the proposed development to the graveyard and the limited areas that were accessible for testing, it was recommended that all groundworks associated with the proposed development be fully monitored.