2022:897 - CASTLETROY, Limerick

A programme of archaeological testing was undertaken at Newcastle, Castletroy, Co. Limerick, prior to a proposed development. Archaeological Testing was carried out over two separate phases as the lands had large areas that were inaccessible due to existing stockpiles of soil stored by others previously, and localised deposits of Japanese knotweed. Test trenching took place over the course of two days split between 2 phases, with Phase 1 commencing in July 2022, and Phase 2 in October 2022. All trenches were excavated using a 13 tonne 360 degree tracked excavator equipped with a flat, toothless bucket under strict archaeological supervision.

A total of 10 trenches were mechanically investigated across the test area which measured c.505 linear metres in total. Nothing of archaeological significance was identified in any of the trenches. It was clear that the land in the western half of the site had been low-lying and potentially subject to seasonal flooding. This was evident from the reeds on the surface, the sticky plastic clay subsoil, localised pockets of peaty material in shallow hollows in subsoil, and the many drains crossing the area. The lands in the northeast of the site showed evidence of previous disturbance and shallow topsoil, possibly associated with previous dumping and clearance of material across the site.

A site compound was being established at the time of the Phase 1 testing. This was located in the north of the site in and area shown in aerial photography as brownfield, suggesting it had previously been stripped of topsoil, and as such had been excluded from any proposed test trenches. The area was inspected and monitored and it was confirmed that nothing of archaeological significance was located within the previously disturbed compound area.