2017:710 - Springfield 3, Sligo

Stage (iii) archaeological excavation was carried out at Springfield 3 in advance of the N4 Collooney to Castlebaldwin Road Development, Co. Sligo. The site was discovered during Stage (i) archaeological testing and was assessed during Stage (ii) Pre-Excavation Services (Registration Number E4627).

The site was located on the south-facing slope of a low hill known locally as Taylor's Hill. It is located immediately to the south of Ardloy 1 and 2/Springfield 4 (E004842) and forms part of the same archaeological complex.

Four distinct areas of activity were identified at the site. These included two structures and two clusters of pits, post-holes, stake-holes and spreads.

Structure 1 was wedge-shaped in plan and measured 4.5m x 5m. This structure had slot trenches to the eastern and western sides and post-holes to the north and south. Six sherds of prehistoric pottery were recovered from the fills of the slot trenches. To the interior were two pits that contained large quantities of ash. There was no evidence for oxidisation at the edges of these pits. To either sides of the pits there were parallel rows of stake-holes. It is tentatively suggested that this structure may have been a smoke-house for curing meat. However, further analysis is required.

Structure 2 measured 6m by 7m and was sub-circular in plan.  It was formed by a series of post- and stake-holes. To the southern side there was a curvilinear metalled surface with post-holes.

Other activity at the site included two clusters of pits, post-holes, stake-holes and spreads. The archaeological activity identified at Springfield 3 probably represents a form of prehistoric habitation or settlement site.

Finds recovered from the site consisted of six sherds of prehistoric pottery and a lithic assemblage.

Brian O'Hara, c/o IAC Ltd, Unit G1 Network Enterprise Park, Kilcoole, Co. Wicklow