Bury Archaeological Project

Project description

This is an annual capital programme allocation designed to support the enhancement of individual initiatives which preserve or enhance important archaeological sites and monuments. The budget is targeted on the Scheduled Ancient Monuments (i.e. sites of National importance) but will also support archaeological investigation of other sites of interest in the borough, identified by inclusion on the Sites and Monuments Record (SAM).

Progress to date

Previously completed archaeological projects have included :

• the consolidation of the fabric of Radcliffe Tower (SAM)
• the revision and update of the Sites and Monuments Record (the archaeological data base).
• the enhancement of the setting of Affetside Cross (SAM) with the monument becoming the focus of the site.

In addition the consolidation and enhancement of Bury Castle (SAM) at Castle Square was achieved in 1999/00 using the Castle Square project budget.

Outputs

• Enhancement of the setting of 3 of the Borough's 4 Scheduled Ancient Monuments.
• Established management regimes to maintain the above 3 sites.
• Creation of a new community facility at Castle Square and Affetside.
• Substantial enhancement of the Sites and Monuments Record.

Archaeological projects 2002-2005

• Radcliffe Ees - Excavation and analysis of Neolithic settlement site. Joint programme with Manchester University/English Heritage - £3,000.
• Radcliffe Tower - Excavation, interpretation of the timber hall as part of the works for the enhancement of the entry to the NSR site. Joint programme with English Heritage & Private company (s106 requirement) - £10,000 (2002/03 and 2003/04).
• Hengi-form monument site, South side of Withins Reservoir, (Near Radcliffe Cemetery. Grid Ref : SD 7850 0863). Site of alleged barrow with nearby later Roman sites (Roman Road and strong point). Greater Manchester Archaeological Unit (GMAU) have undertaken Aerial Photography and Geophysical analysis to date. Next phase to be site excavation in conjunction with GMAU and the University to fully reveal details of potentially one of the most important sites in Greater Manchester. Initial excavation cost of £5,000 to be joint funded with Manchester University. (2003/04)
• Ainsworth Hall - Support for joint project with University on possible Romano-British settlement. Expected cost of £3,000 to be matched by University.
• Cruck/Timber Framed Dendrochronology Survey/Report - Dating of known medieval buildings. Including the Two Tubs Public House. Possible joint scheme with Thwaites brewery. Approx cost £5,000. (2002/03)
• Industrial Archaeological enhancement of Sites and Monument Record. Joint project with Bury Industrial Archaeological Society. Survey report including work by volunteers, approximate Cost £4,000.

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