2024:465 - Raghra, Offaly

Archaeological testing was undertaken in response to a further information request for a planning application for a proposed development in Raghra Townland, Shannonbridge, County Offaly, less than 10m from the current course of the River Shannon, which runs adjacent to the western boundary of the site.

Testing was undertaken by a mechanical 13 tonne tracked digger fitted with a 2m wide ditching bucket. The excavation of trenches was archaeologically monitored. Non-natural features were recorded, and soil conditions noted. Significant modern and historic disturbance was observed in a number of trenches, most notably in trenches one to three. This disturbance relates to building up of the ground surface using rubble and general dumping at the site.

A total of five test trenches amounting to just under 114 linear meters was excavated to assess six areas of ground disturbance, corresponding to 228 square meters, which equates to approximately 40% of the area to be developed. The testing revealed that the southern portion of the site has been subject to very significant disturbance in the recent past, resulting in a considerably amount of modern fill being deposited.

Testing did not reveal any evidence of archaeological features or finds. Therefore, no further archaeological mitigation is recommended.