Archaeologists begin digging site in Cambridgeshire before becoming new police station
The land could have been occupied in the Roman Ages
Last updated 3rd May 2023
Archaeologists have begun digging in a field in Milton, South Cambridgeshire ahead of building works for a new police station.
Evidence reveals the land may have been occupied in the Roman, Iron and Bronze Ages.
Jim Brown, head at the Archaeological Research Services’, told us "one of our objectives is to try and increase our understanding of the Iron Age and Roman environment. And in particular try and understand the regions Roman villas".
What is expected to be found there?
Mr Brown expects "substantial pottery and animal bone assemblages" to be found at the site.
These can tell experts a lot about the economy of the site and how it was used.
He added: "The site predominantly is going to be Roman, I would expect mostly post-conquest period, late first century through to the fourth century.
“We know there’s a great deal of past activity here from previous investigations in neighbouring developments."
He added: "Evidence has revealed occupation stretching back through the Roman, Iron and Bronze Ages, with some rare finds coming to light.
"We’re eager to start uncovering what lies beneath the soil"
"It’s a landscape that’s inspired many archaeological investigations to date and we’re eager to start uncovering what lies beneath the soil over the coming weeks and months.”
Cambridgeshire Constabulary submitted an application to Greater Cambridge Shared Planning in September 2020 for the new site.
It's hoped it will enhance the service for the south of Cambridgeshire by replacing the outdated facilities at Parkside Police Station with a modern police station.
Cambridgeshire Constabulary and Archaeological Research Services will be sharing weekly updates from the excavation.
Jackie Golby, Strategic Estates Director from the Constabulary, said: "Ensuring this site is thoroughly examined is an important part of the development process, making the most of the opportunity to find out more about the history and heritage of this area before we embark on a new chapter for policing in the south of Cambridgeshire."