Source/Archive record SCH6411 - Betchton Marina, Chells Hill, Betchton, Cheshire: archaeological Desk Based Assessment

In July 2011 Cotswold Archaeology was commissioned by GJP Marina Developments Ltd to carry out an Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment of land at Betchton, Chells Hill, Cheshire. The objective of the assessment was to identify the nature and extent of the recorded archaeological resource within both the site and its immediate environs. A number of ponds are recorded within the site. The origin and function of these features is unclear, although it is possible that these ponds were originally used as watering holes for livestock, or alternatively were associated with the extraction of halite stone. As probable modern agricultural features these ponds are not considered to be heritage assets. Two large, shallow earthwork features are recorded in the south-western part of the site. It is possible that these features represent former ponds, although they may also be associated with the extraction of halite, as the containing field is named ‘Little White Pit Field’ in the Tithe Apportionment. As such, these earthwork features are considered to be potential heritage assets of uncertain significance, although if they do relate to salt extraction they are likely to be of low significance. The Trent and Mersey Canal passes immediately to the south of the site and is designated as a Conservation Area. Due to its association with post-medieval and modern industrial activity in Cheshire and Staffordshire, the canal is considered to be a heritage asset of historic and architectural interest of medium significance. There are no associated features recorded within the site and the potential for currently unrecorded archaeological remains associated with the canal is considered to be low. The canal will not be physically altered by the development, and it is unlikely that the creation of a marina would have a significant adverse affect on the setting of the canal. The possible course of King Street Roman road passes 180m north of the site. The presence of a possible Roman road raises some potential for Roman archaeological remains within the site, although there is no specific potential for such remains within the site.