Monument record SLY 073 - Structure of Post Medieval or Modern date in the intertidal zone of the River Orwell, Shotley.

A structure of unknown function, and of Post Medieval or Modern date, is visible on aerial photographs from 1944 to 1955, centred on TM24933499. The Structure appears to extend from the sea wall at circa TM24923401, and follow the shoreline for about 54m, before making a 90-degree turn and extending into the intertidal zone for nearly 12m. The structure may continue for up to 50 to the north of TM24923401, but it is not possible to be positive from the photographs. The structure does not appear on the 1st or 2nd Edition Ordnance Survey maps of circa 1884 and 1904, and the condition of the structure appears to deteriorate considerably from 1944 to 1955, which may suggest a modern date. However, it is not possible to determine from the photographs whether this is due to damage from erosion, or simply a matter of reduced visibility due to the accumulation of riverine silts. A recent site visit has recorded a structure of this configuration in this location, composed of wooden planks and wattle, which may suggest that the structure is indeed modern. However, the possibility of the repair or enhancement of an existing older structure cannot be discounted. (S1-S7).