Series: Glasgow University Archaeological Research Division reports

JMO

Two areas beside the Moray Firth, to the east of Inverness, were assessed for archaeological potential in advance of construction work. The first, at Allanfearn, surrounded three scheduled Pictish square barrows and adjacent fields which were surveyed using magnetometry. The methodology is discussed and the results of the survey interpreted. Recommendations for full and trial excavation are made. In the second area, near Stoneyfield House, aerial photography has previously identified cropmarks of Late Neolithic/Bronze Age date, although further work is yet to be carried out. JMO

Reports on work carried out prior to construction of the Skara Brae visitor centre. The remains of several undated stone structures (probably early field boundaries) sealed by wind-blown sand were recorded, along with a stone-lined channel and circular structure possibly associated with a nineteenth-century lint mill.

An archaeological evaluation and watching brief in advance of development on part of the site of a Roman temporary camp demonstrated that no in-situ archaeological deposits remained within the affected area. Appendices include the `Desk top assessment' (13--17) and the `WoSAS specification' drawn up by the West of Scotland Archaeology Service (18--22).

A watching brief found that the only significant archaeological material within the corridor was a concentration of eighteenth-century rubbish deposits. These were excavated. Appendices (15--20) summarise field records.

Reports the results of an evaluation and excavations on the line of the proposed M6 extension where it passes over the Roman temporary camp. An entrance, part of the interior and rampart, and extramural areas were investigated. Silting of the ditch and the presence of a stone oven suggest that the turf rampart remained standing for some time before being deliberately destroyed and that the site was more than a temporary marching camp. A medieval stone terrace wall was excavated on the banks of the river Evan Water: its function is not clear, but it represents a substantial piece of civil engineering. Context descriptions, samples, and photographs are listed in `Appendices' (28-40).

The site was originally identified from the recovery of ploughed up lithics: work associated with the construction and upgrading of the A74 subsequently revealed a ditched enclosure and located other probable archaeological features which prompted further work. These latest excavations revealed possible agricultural activity and evidence for buildings, one showing several occupation phases. Possibly contemporary with these were several large pits, whose backfilling appears to mark a change from domestic to ritual activity. Clay spreads and the construction of two large four-post structures were associated with Grooved Ware deposited in small pits, indicating a Late Neolithic date. However, until radiocarbon dates are established it is unclear whether this as yet hypothetical change affected the whole site or indeed dates to the Late Neolithic rather than a much later period. An appendix (23) lists small finds, radiocarbon dates, contexts, plans, drawings and photographs.

Reports on the results of a field assessment on the Stafford Street site, which produced evidence for the excellent preservation of pottery deposits and upstanding structural remains (including sanitary pressing shop, clay cellars, and kilns). The documented history of the works is summarised, and there are recommendations for a mitigation strategy. A glossary of pottery factory jargon (26--7) is followed by appended indexes of contexts and photographs.

Reports on the recovery of a cinerary vessel discovered by chance in a private garden. The vessel is identified as a cordoned urn or possibly a cordoned-collared urn. Examination of surrounding deposits revealed that the urn had been covered with a stone slab and inverted into a pit. An adjacent cobble-filled pit was not stratigraphically associated with the cremation. `Appendix A: conservation interim report' is by Jane Clark (11). `Appendix B' (12--14) lists contexts, photographs, and samples.

A desktop survey, supplemented by field observation, on land adjacent to the former Braehead Power Station, near Renfrew. The area includes the site of a castle, an ancient causeway to Marlins Ford on the river Clyde, four farmsteads of great antiquity, and nineteenth century industrial sites. Recommendations are made for further investigation.