2019:585 - CASTLEBELLINGHAM: Phase 1 of a proposed development at Bellingham Castle, Louth

A programme of archaeological test trenching was carried out at Bellingham Castle, Castlebellingham, Co. Louth. The south-western corner of the Phase 1 development area contains a Castle – unclassified (LH015-009). The 17th-century house (LH015-031), known as Bellingham Castle, is located c. 55m north of the edge of the proposed development site and will not be directly affected by the development. This house is also a Protected Structure (Ref. LHS015-005), as listed in the Louth County Development Plan 2015–2021.

An archaeological assessment in relation to the proposed development was carried out by Jon Stirland of Archaeological Consultancy Services Unit (ACSU) in November 2018. This recommended that following the demolition of the existing outbuildings and prior to any construction commencing, the footprint of the proposed development should be subject to archaeological test trenching, to ascertain if any archaeological features or structures are present, particularly in relation to the adjacent former castle (LH015-009).

Test trenching in relation to Phase 1 took place on 15 November 2019 using a 14-tonne tracked excavator, under continuous supervision. Two test trenches were excavated at right angles to one another along the length of the proposed L-shaped development. Each trench measured 1.8m in width. In total 63m of linear trenches were excavated.

No archaeological features or deposits were identified and no finds were recovered. It is therefore recommended that no further archaeological input is required for Phase 1 of the proposed development.