Low Crosby Flood Alleviation Scheme, Scaleby, Cumbria: Archaeological Watching Brief

In 2009 the Environment Agency (EA) submitted proposals for the improvement and of the flood defences within and around Low Crosby, Scaleby, Cumbria (NGR NY 446 593). The site is located within an area of archaeological potential, with Hadrian’s Wall less than 1 mile to the north and the route of the Roman Stanegate road believed to traverse the village itself. Moreover, a geophysical survey within the area of the flood defence suggested the presence of putative archaeological remains, several of which were identified as possible brick clamps in a subsequent archaeological evaluation. Development groundworks commenced in the autumn of 2010 and, accordingly, the Environment Agency Archaeologist requested that an archaeological watching brief be maintained during ground disturbance activities within specific areas of the site. Established in agreement with Cumbria County Council Historic Environment Service (CCCHES), these monitored groundworks comprised: the construction of a new road section; alterations to the walls and access at Low Crosby church; and the cutting of a service trench across the existing road through the village. Following submission of a project design to meet CCCHES requirements, Oxford Archaeology North (OA North) was commissioned to undertake the watching brief, which took place between 16th of November and 16th of December 2010.