Monument record 10233 - Medieval pits below the Grosvenor Shopping Centre

Several medieval pits and features were identified during archaeological investigations below the basement of the Grosvenor Shopping Centre. The discovery of surviving medieval remains at this location is significant, indicating a good preservation of important archaeological features despite modern redevelopment in the 1960s.

The evidence consists of a broad cut feature in trench 1 interpreted as a large rubbish pit containing fragments of 14th century pottery. The pit was cut by a later wall foundation of medieval or later date. A second pit was identified in trench 2 of the excavations containing fragments of pottery of a 15th century date as well as traces of carbonised timber, seeds and a fragment of decorated medieval floor tile possibly from a nearby ecclesiastical building. (1).

A subsequent phase of investigation, carried out further east and close to the city wall identified several large medieval rubbish pits in trenches 7 & 8 containing large quantities of medieval pottery and a possible sandstone wall foundation in trench 6. (2)

<1> Earthworks Archaeological Services, 2004, Proposed Extension to the Rear of Units 21-31 Newgate Row, Grosvenor Shopping Centre, Chester, R2539 (Client Report). SCH4593.

<2> Earthworks Archaeological Services, 2011, Site Summary from Grosvenor Shopping Precinct Evaluation in 2004 (Unpublished Report). SCH6675.