2017:865 - Clonard or Folkstown Great and Stephenstown, Balbriggan, Dublin

This programme of works represents the fourth phase of archaeological investigations within the site, which originally commenced in 2007. This phase of works consisted of a geophysical survey carried out as part of the Stephenstown Local Area Plan, and a course of archaeological test trenching.

Two areas of archaeological potential were identified during the most recent course of testing (AA1 & AA2). AA1 may represent the remains of a prehistoric settlement in the north-eastern portion of the site. The features consisted of a collection of pits, a possible kiln and a hearth. No dating evidence was retrieved during the course of testing. AA2 consists of a possible kiln and several linear features that may possess archaeological significance, although they follow the same alignment as the post-medieval agricultural features that cross the site.

A previous phase of archaeological testing in 2009 resulted in the identification of one potential cremation pit, the excavation and preservation by record of which was included for in the scope of this assessment. As a part of this current phase of works an area measuring 10m x 10m was stripped at the approximate location of the possible cremation pit that was identified in 2009. A pit similar in dimensions was exposed and excavated as part of the programme of works. The function of the feature was unclear; however, an additional 17 features (including possible post-holes and pits) were identified to the south and northeast of the pit that may be related to the feature. These have the potential to represent prehistoric settlement activity and may also be related to activity identified in AA1 and 2. The additional features were recorded as part of the works and preserved in situ and have been designated as AA3.

c/o IAC Archaeology, Unit G1 Network Enterprise Park, Kilcoole, Co. Wicklow