Source/Archive record SCH9588 - Unionist Building, Nicholas Street, Chester: Archaeological Evaluation Report

An archaeological evaluation was undertaken in September 2023 at land at the rear of the Unionist Building, Nicholas Street, Chester (centred on NGR: SJ 340315 366015). In August 2023, a written scheme of investigation was produced including a preliminary assessment of the site which revealed that it had a very high potential to contain archaeological remains from the Roman and medieval periods. Consequently, an initial archaeological investigation was undertaken, limited to a single trench measuring 10m in length and 2m in width. The investigation revealed a find-bearing layer containing frequent Roman ceramic building material (CBM) redolent of demolition material. The presence of this layer suggests that a Roman building may have stood nearby. Earlier Roman deposits, potentially building remains, may lie beneath the deposit. Boundary ditches relating to post-medieval organisation of the site were also revealed. A stone foundation wall formed one side of a cottage, likely constructed in the mid-19th century.