Monument record 8002/2 - Roman Sandstone Surface, Ditch and soil deposits at Bluecoat School, Upper Northgate Street

<1> Walker, W., 2013, Written Communication on sites excavated by Earthworks Archaeological Services (Written Communication). SCH7149.

A watching brief following the demoltion of 19th century wash-house at the Bluecoat School found a sandstone surface measuring between 50-70mm thick , constructed crushed red sandstone fragments with the occasional larger flat sandstone which may have formed more substantial surfacing.A possible linear ditch running eastwest alongside the surface was encountered. Large flat sandstones immediately north of this possible ditch may possibly represent kerbing for a road with associated drainage ditch on its south side.

A series of soil deposits sealed beneath the sandstone surface, contexts contained Roman pottery sherds of 1st to 2nd century date along with fragments of ferrous metal and possible copper-alloy metal working slags.

The soil deposits which formed above the sandstone surface were themselves sealed beneath a further soil accumulation which contained some large sherds of Roman pottery and ceramic roofing tile. This soil layer (6) may represent renewed occupation outside the
fortress but may also represent dumping of soils and mixed material perhaps for agricultural reasons or as a deliberate attempt to raise ground levels perhaps for building purposes. The general mix of 1st-2nd century pottery recovered from this context
certianly suggests that this soil has been redeposited.