Kendal WwTW South Compound, Watercrook, Kendal, Cumbria Archaeological Watching Brief Report

Oxford Archaeology (OA) North was commissioned by United Utilities to undertake an archaeological watching brief during topsoil stripping for specific elements, including: a crane pad; an access route; a soakaway lagoon; and
shaft collar, for a new outfall of the Kendal Wastewater Treatment Works (WwTW), Watercrook, Kendal, Cumbria (NGR: SD 51650 90475). An informal brief was set by Jeremy Parsons, Historic Environment Officer for Cumbria County Council (CCC), which detailed the local authority’s (South Lakeland
District Council; SLDC) requirements for the archaeological works necessary to discharge the planning condition. The brief was provided to United Utilities, who subsequently commissioned OA North to produce a Written Scheme of
Investigation (WSI) and maintain the archaeological watching brief, which was undertaken over eight days, between 21st April and 11th May 2021.
The groundworks on the northern part of the site, where there was the greatest impact from the proposed development, as well as two test-pits to the south of the compound, were continuously monitored by an archaeologist. Natural geology was identified throughout this area and was proven during the excavation of the area for the construction of the crane pad, which was excavated to a maximum depth of 2.2m; archaeological features, if present, would have been easily identifiable against the natural geology. Although there was potential to encounter archaeological remains, due to the
presence of Watercrook Roman fort to the north of the proposed development, no archaeological features or finds were observed.