York Archaeological Trust
It is not possible to predict precisely what archaeological deposits will survive in what condition in any particular part of York from desk-top evidence alone. However, the evidence presented in this study has shown that the area proposed for the Hungate development contains significant archaeological deposits which survive in places to over 6.0m below the ground surface. These are likely to be complex and waterlogged, and to contain the conditions necessary for the survival of artefact rich and environmentally interesting deposits.
The archaeological and historical development of the area has been complex relating to the constant and sometimes drastic changes in the course of the River Foss. It is likely that archaeological remains from the prehistoric period onwards will survive in the area, and that significant riverside occupation from the Roman, Anglo-Scandinavian, medieval and post-medieval periods will survive where 19th and 20th century development has not disturbed them.
The archaeological deposits form a significant and considerable resource for the elucidation of man’s exploitation of the Foss river valley. The next step in evaluating the effect of development on the archaeology should be the excavation of a series of targeted archaeological evaluation trenches to accurately identify the depth and character of the deposits in areas where disturbance is proposed. Particular areas which should be examined for the first phase of the scheme are :
sites on the natural ridge along Dundas Street with particular attention being paid to determine the location of the church and cemetery of St. John in the Marsh and the Holy Priests’ House
the supposed location of the Shoemakers or Cordwainers Hall at the junction of Hungate and Palmer Lane
the proposed new entrance to the Shambles car park
a site close to the Stonebow within the former precinct of the Carmelite Friary to determine, if possible, what level of preservation is present here
a site within the former King’s Fishpool to attempt to determine the nature of occupation prior to the creation of the pool
Following these investigations a suitable mitigation strategy should be devised to minimise the impact of development on this highly important archaeological resource.