| Abstract: |
An archaeological trial trench evaluation, comprised the excavation of seven trial trenches, carried out by MOLA and the Enfield Archaeological Society (EAS) between 06/02/17 and 12/02/17 on the site of Prince of Wales Field, Enfield, London EN3. A consistent sequence of deposits was found across the majority of the site: natural gravel overlain by alluvial sands, sealed by clays, which graded into silty clay subsoil/topsoil. Trench 7, to the SE of the site, revealed a layer of humic silty clay, containing preserved tree branches, which overlay a layer of slightly silty peat with wood fragments. However, these timber fragments appear to have been natural in origin and deposition. Evidence of human activity came in the form of 19th to 20th century material found within the subsoil/topsoil, and two unstratified struck flints recovered from Trench 7. The size and layout of the trenches are considered to have provided a representative sample.
The results of the evaluation have helped to refine the initial assessment of the archaeological potential of the site, and clarify the impact of the proposals. A consistent sequence of natural deposits was found in trenches excavated across the areas which would be affected by the construction of the wetlands. Two unstratified worked flints, of low heritage significance, were the only evidence of early human activity. |
