2025:625 - Ballymakenny Site 10, Yellowbatter, Drogheda, Louth

Archaeological testing was undertaken at Site 10, Ballymakenny Road in association with a proposed development in Yellowbatter, Drogheda, Co. Louth. Test trenching was undertaken on 24 April 2025. A total of 8 trenches, which measured 170 linear metres, were mechanically investigated. Testing revealed one area of archaeological significance, which has been designated as Archaeological Area 1.

It consists of a curvilinear feature (C1.1) orientated east-west and extended across Trench 1. It was filled by a metalled cobble layer (C1.5). The feature is clearly defined by the contrast of the colour between the surrounding natural subsoil which was yellowish-brown stony clay and the filling of the feature which contained a grey cobble surface. It measures 0.7m wide and only 0.05m deep. This feature forms part of the enclosure depicted in the geophysical survey as its location matches correctly. The enclosure shows a circular-shaped plan of c. 20m in diameter; however, the southern return was not identified in an excavated trench. No archaeological finds were retrieved from the excavated section of this feature.

Stone drains were observed in Trenches 2, 5, 6 and 7 and interpreted as made for agricultural purposes. These were cut into the natural subsoil and filled with stones and occasional brick.