Monument record 8460 - Roman structural evidence from Bridge Street east

Substantial evidence of multi-phase Roman activity was recorded to the rear of No 19 Bridge Street. The evidence suggests an early Roman structure comprising a wall and evidence of a flue suggesting the presence of a hypocaust nearby. Dating for the early structure is tentatively placed in the late first or early second century but was overlain by a layer of charcoal and ash suggesting it was destroyed by fire.

The site of the building was then used for some time for waste deposition with a series of layers comprising organic and waste material. Although dating evidence was limited, this period of activity is tentatively attributed to the second century hiatus period.

In the third century a new structure appears to have been built on the site following the levelling of the waste deposits. The new structure consisted of substantial wall foundations dating to the mid third to fourth century. A probable yard or road surface was also encountered close to the structural evidence. (1)

<1> Chester Archaeology, 1996, 25-29 Bridge Street, Chester; trial excavation., R2689 (Client Report). SCH4797.

<2> Chester City Council Archaeology Service, 1996, The Past Uncovered (Newsletter). SCH6012.

<3> Chester City Council Archaeology Service, 1997, Annual Review 1996-1997 (Newsletter). SCH6053.

<4> Mason, D. J. P., 2005, Exacavations at Chester: The Roman fortress baths, excavations and recording 1732-1998 (Monograph). SCH6157.