2023:238 - Dublin Road, Johnstown, Enfield, Meath

Archaeological test trenching was carried out on a site at Dublin Road, Johnstown, Enfield, Co. Meath. Three trenches were previously excavated at the western section of the site, west of the hedge line in 2020 (20E0663). Three archaeological features were identified and excavated: two shallow pits, C10, C15 and a spread C14. Charcoal retrieved from an environmental sample returned a date of 1710 +/- 30, giving a 2-sigma calibrated date range of 250 - 420 AD (ICA 14C/5359), placing pit C10 in the Late Iron Age. Cremated bone recovered from fills of pit C10 was analysed; however, due to the fragmentation, it was not possible to establish if these were of human or animal origin. A decorated bone comb fragment (20E0663:01:03) was also recovered beside pit C10, however, due to its location, it was recorded as a topsoil find.

A further 13 trenches were excavated across the footprint of the proposed development in October 2023. The test trenches were excavated down to the natural subsoil The natural subsoil ranged from a mottled orange and grey clay to a grey gravel. Two areas of archaeological activity were identified at the northwest/centre and at the south/southwest. A total of 38 features were identified, comprising ditches, pits, post-holes and kilns. The majority of the features are considered to be archaeological features; five (C107, C128, C134-C136) are considered to be modern.

If it is not possible to preserve these features in situ and put a 10m buffer zone around them, it is recommended to open up the highlighted areas and preserve the features by record (excavation).  All further topsoil stripping within the proposed development site should be monitored and any further archaeological features identified should be preserved in situ or by record (excavation) in consultation with the National Monuments Service.

Archaeological Consultancy Services Unit, Unit 21, Boyne Business Park, Greenhills, Drogheda, Co Louth.