2024:314 - Arden Lane, Tullamore, Offaly

A total of 16 trenches (530 linear metres) were excavated at Arden Lane, Tullamore, Co. Offaly (Ardan Td, Kilbride Parish, Barony of Ballycowan). The desk-based study from June 2023 was followed by geophysical survey (23R0437) conducted in November 2023 and test excavations that took place on 4 December 2024. The topsoil/ploughsoil measured 0.3-0.45m deep across the site depending on location and comprised dark brown friable, organic-rich silty clay. The topsoil was saturated with sand and gravel, especially in the southern half of the field. The natural subsoil varied across the site and comprised a dark orange-brown silty-clay with light yellow patches. Bands of sand and gravel were also present in the subsoil.

The presumed portion of Recorded Monument OF017-002 that was extending into the site proved to be natural underlying geology (a band of gravel) that coincidentally followed the projected shape of the ringfort’s enclosing ditch. A small section was hand-excavated in the vicinity of the gravel patch to check the composition of the surrounding subsoil and any potential indications for the presence of the ringditch.

The rest of the geophysical findings reflected different forms of geological materials present in the subsoil (bands and patches of sand and gravel).

Nothing of archaeological significance was recorded during the test excavation.