Connolly Heritage Consultancy unpublished report series

An archaeological investigation to a depth of 400mm below ground surface to ensure that archaeological features relating to the Melrose Abbey were not damaged by use of lawn for events. A gravel rich drainage layer containing 18th century artefacts overlaid a possible natural clay subsoil at 400-420 mm.

A photographic and drawn building survey due to the collapse of a brick wall at the Flower Garden wall within the estate. Works were undertaken in advance of and in conjunction with works carried out by masons in the repair of the wall, to allow, where possible, a functional design to be restored.

Investigation of small development within medieval village.

Investigation of the built structures and both internal and boundary walls at the property showed an evolution of function, form and ownership relating to the reestablishment of Duddingston Village from the late 18th -century. 19th -century property ownership on either side (Hawthorn Brae to the east and Bella Vista to the west) utilized the areas for various functions, including a market garden, stables and bowling green. The 20th -century is represented by the creation of the structure now known as the Dairy, using two pre-existing structures, and the upper level is finally developed with the building of a brick stables in the 1950s. The whole group is linked by a side vennel on the west and is constructed on three distinct levels or terraces into the lower slopes of Arthur's Seat to the north. The most important and visible alteration that is still intact today, is a unifying screen wall that fronts the Causeway, uniting the entire property of Hawthorn Brae. This wall of yellow sandstone was constructed around 1817, with the establishment of the Villa and grounds. Bella Vistas history of property ownership, expansion and access is well represented in the western boundary of the site. As a whole, the site is a unique example of the development of Duddingston as a settlement for rich businessmen, and their establishment of well appointed Villas, private spaces and utilitarian buildings such as Stables and a Dairy.

An archaeological watching brief was carried out during remedial work on the drainage system in the courtyard of Newhailes Stables. Two drains were located of probable early 19th century date, and their routes traced where possible. A small section of sandstone and mortar wall foundation with a pantile damp course, was also uncovered that related to the earlier 18th century stable structures. Any further works in this area will require archaeological supervision

An archaeological investigation of the rear backlot of Ormiston Old School House was conducted to establish the presence of archaeological deposits. No significant archaeological deposits were encountered.

An archaeological building record of a garage bothy directly to the east of Culross Palace was required prior to repair, consolidation and refurbishment.

Rampart Scotland Project 3 investigation comprises an archaeological evaluation undertaken by Rampart Scotland at Sheriffside, East Lothian. One trench was opened at Sheriffside. All the features identified within the trench were then excavated, recorded and surveyed. The work was carried out during May 2011. A geophysical survey was also undertaken in the field surrounding the trench.

An archaeological investigation prior to the rear extension of an 20th century semidetached property to the north of Preston Tower in Prestonpans. Excavation to a depth of 740mm exposed the construction debris of a late 20th century building and two features of possible late 19th century date relating to the orchard phase. Sandy clay natural was encountered at a depth of 520mm beneath the existing ground surface. No significant archaeology was uncovered, with most of the area being heavily altered in the 1960s.

An archaeological buildings appraisal was required due to an archaeological condition being placed on the development at Woodhall House, Edinburgh. The site is located, within an historic landscape and has fabric dating back potentially to the 16th century. The fabric of the building that will be impacted by building work dates primarily to the late 19th century when a major refurbishment was undertaken. The entire roof structure and all the upper rooms have been altered at this time. The repointing of the exterior and the discussion on re-harling the exterior wall surfaces gave valuable insights into the structural history of the building, including and understanding of the phased alterations.