2018:305 - Merryfalls Unit, Dublin 9, Dublin

A programme of testing was undertaken within the site of a proposed warehouse/logistics unit development at D9, Horizon Logistics Park, Merryfalls, St Margarets, Swords, Co. Dublin. The investigation was carried out in response to planning conditions attached to the proposed development (Planning Ref.: F18A/0457). It follows a previous desktop assessment carried out by Jacqui Anderson of IAC in July 2018.

Testing trenches measuring 950 linear metres were excavated across the footprint of the proposed development area over the course of two days in December 2018.

No archaeology was identified in any of the excavated test trenches and the northern extent of the site is considered to have limited archaeological potential. The southern part of the site is directly adjacent to an enclosure (DU014-123) and therefore has more archaeological potential. Although no features associated with the enclosure were identified within the current test trenches there may be an adverse impact on any previously unrecorded archaeological features or deposits that have the potential to survive beneath the current ground level, outside of the investigated area. This will be caused by ground disturbances associated with the proposed development.

Archaeological monitoring will be carried out for all remaining topsoil stripping as per planning condition 13a; specifically within the southern limit of the development area in proximity to the enclosure.

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