Monument record WNN 023 - Neolithic and post-medieval finds and features at Biogas Plant, Bentwaters Park, Rendlesham

A programme of archaeological evaluation and excavation was undertaken by AOC Archaeology Group. The work was carried out ahead of a proposed development for the construction of a biogas plant, adjacent to building 568 at the Bentwaters Park. The earliest phase of activity identified on site occurred during the Early Neolithic, consisting of three rubbish pits located in the southwest area of site. A small to moderate sized finds assemblage was recovered from the small pits, comprising of Early Neolithic pottery, worked flint and fire clay. No further activity was detected on site until the 19th or 20th century, represented by a rubbish pit and an isolated posthole. Numerous other features were identified during the course of the archaeological investigations, but due to a lack of dating evidence, they could not be assigned to any one period of activity. The undated features included a possible boundary ditch and fence line. Overall, a low density of archaeological features was identified during the course of the evaluation and excavation deriving from the Early Neolithic and post-medieval/modern periods. As a whole, the site is thought to be of regional significance, this is due to the presence of Early Neolithic activity which maybe able to inform on how the regional landscape was being utilised at this time (S1).

Desk based assessment identified archaeological remains known from the vicinity of the application site. No remains are known from the application site, with the surrounding landscape being used form the prehistoric until the present day. The concrete runway on the western part of the application site may have impacted seriously on ant archaeological remains. The development would have significant effects upon any archaeological remains, if present (S2).