2024:469 - Ballyboy, Offaly

Archaeological monitoring was undertaken of groundworks associated with a new carpark and related landscaping at Ballyboy. The site is adjacent a complex of medieval archaeological sites including Ballyboy Castle, site of (RMP OF031-015001-); Ballyboy motte and bailey (RMP OF031-015002-), and a medieval settlement cluster (RMP OF031-015003-). Monitoring followed a programme of geophysical survey undertaken at the site by Ger Dowling in 2022 (Licence No.: 22R0109) and archaeological testing in April 2022, when eight test trenches were excavated, amounting to a total of 197.5 linear meters (License No.: 22E208).

This programme of archaeological testing indicated significant disturbance to the site in the modern period. No archaeological deposits were recorded during testing with the exception of a small area of cobbling, which possibly dates to the 19^th century. However, considering the immediate proximity of several medieval monuments it was recommended that groundworks should still be subject to archaeological monitoring.

As such when Phase 1 of the development, the construction of the carpark, commenced, monitoring at the site was undertaken in April 2024. In June 2024 additional monitoring was required for the installation of an attenuation pond and overflow pipe for the carpark, which was monitored under the same licence.

All groundworks were monitored to the base level of the development for Phase 1, revealing no archaeological deposits. At the time of writing, the plans for Phase 2 (the construction of a new community hall) are not progressing until funding is secured.