2020:095 - Midleton Community Nursing Unit, Midleton, Cork

A programme of archaeological test trenching was carried out at Townparks, Midleton Community Nursing Unit, Midleton, Co. Cork in May 2020.

A total of 7 test trenches were excavated across the site. Each trench measured 1.8m in width. In total, 118m of linear trenches were excavated. In general, the trenches contained topsoil and sod to a depth of c. 0.04-0.15m, overlying brown clay that measured between 0.45-0.63m. The natural orange gravelly clay was exposed at a depth of c. 0.5-0.78m. In Trench 3 excavation uncovered two concrete kerbs likely representing the edge of a former landscaped area and a wall foundation consisting of a narrow lens of mortar and rubble representing the base of a wall associated with outdoor areas depicted on the 1st Edition OS 6-inch map of 1840. These are likely associated with the south-east wing of the former workhouse that was demolished in the 1970s.

Prior to the licenced testing programme, in April 2019 during geotechnical investigations, the excavation of 10 slit trenches was monitored by an ACSU archaeologist. During these works, the archaeologist identified a single course of limestone wall in line with the present gable of the Chapel building, likely representing the demolished walls of the infirmary building. Pinkish concrete that was exposed nearby likely represents a former yard surface within the walled outdoor areas as depicted on the 1840 map. Two trenches were also excavated against the existing boundary wall in order to assess the depth of foundations.

This investigation concluded that subsurface structural elements relating to the eastern range of the Workhouse still survive below ground in the present parking area, roadway and adjacent lawn areas. In order to fully mitigate the impact on the known and suspected archaeological deposits, all ground disturbances carried out should be archaeologically monitored.

Unit 21, Boyne Business Park, Greenhills, Drogheda, Co Louth.