Dunham Tank to Knutsford Pipeline, Greater Manchester and Cheshire: Watching Brief, Evaluation, and Strip and Record Investigation

United Utilities proposed the construction of a new water main from Knutsford Waterworks, Cheshire (SJ 74995 79396) to Dunham Reservoir (SJ 75284 87414). In addition to crossing two counties, with the majority of the route lying in Cheshire East, it also crosses the Dunham Massey National Trust Estate. As a consequence, consultations were held with the Cheshire Planning Archaeologist, Greater Manchester County Archaeologist, and The National Trust Archaeologist, this being dependent upon the precise geographical location along the route.
An archaeological desk-based assessment and walkover survey relating to the application area was recommended. Oxford Archaeology North (OA North) was subsequently commissioned by United Utilities to undertake this work in August and September 2008, with a supplementary research report being undertaken during April and May 2009, following modifications to the pipeline route, and comments received from The National Trust Archaeologist.