M20 Junction 10a, Ashford, Kent

Oxford Archaeology was commissioned by Highways England to undertake an
archaeological evaluation at the site of the M20 Junction 10a improvements,
Ashford, Kent. The evaluation comprised 69 trenches, which were located to
investigate anomalies identified during a preceding geophysical survey.
A modest number of archaeological features were identified during survey
and evaluation trenching, including 36 linear features such as ditches that may
be indicative of the past field systems. Seven possible cremation burials were
uncovered in Area 4. Two possible palaeochannels were present, as well as
one pond. Post-medieval and modern features were concentrated in Area 1:
three post-medieval field boundaries were identified which correlated with
boundaries on the first edition Ordnance Survey map.
Limited quantities of artefacts were recovered during the evaluation, which
has made the dating of most features highly uncertain. A small number of
features produced broadly datable artefacts. Dateable features were mostly
medieval, but also contained residual prehistoric artefacts. A palaeochannel
in Area 2 contained medieval pottery. Residual flint found in several features
spread across the site most likely relates to an area of prehistoric tool
production and use.
The geophysical survey, trial trenching, archaeological walkover survey and
evaluation trenching provide a robust assessment of the site’s archaeological
potential. However, the scarcity of artefacts and other evidence limits what
can be said regarding the significance of the remains