Site Event/Activity record ECH6193 - The Leadworks, Chester. Archaeological Assessment and PPS5 Heritage Statement.

A site located at The Leadworks, Chester, is proposed for redevelopment. In 2011 an assessment was carried out of the significance of the potential archaeology within the site and the standing Leadworks buildings. Previous fieldwork within the vicinity suggests that there is a moderate potential for surviving Roman and Medieval agricultural soils within the site. These are considered of low archaeological significance. There is very low potential for archaeological remains from other periods prior to the development of The Leadworks. The key heritage asset on the site is the surviving Leadworks buildings, which comprise an engine house, a white lead building, the south gables of four brick sheds and a shot tower. The tower is the only surviving example from the industrial period in the country and the complex is considered nationally important due to its early origins and range of relatively well preserved buildings. The complex is listed as Grade II*. The proposed development involves the retention of the three standing buildings (including a heritage centre within the tower) and the demolition of the shed gables. Should development be permitted, it is likely that further archaeological assessment and a program of mitigation will be required as well as a program of building recording on any impacted standing buildings.