The hidden history of north Lincolnshire has been uncovered at Bicker Fen during archaeological investigations as part of the development of the Triton Knoll offshore windfarm.
The survey, commissioned by developer Innogy Renewables, was run by Lincoln based Allen Archaeology Ltd, an archaeological contractor and consultancy firm who are working at both the Bicker Fen substation site and the 32km cable route in preparation for onshore construction.
At Bicker Fen an area of six hectares is being investigated, with exciting evidence of the late Iron Age through to mid-late Roman farming landscape.
Multiple enclosures, known as ladder settlements were found, which were attached to a double ditched trackway. Storage structures and several ring gullies as well as evidence of round houses were located.
An area of industrial activity, possibly related to saltmaking, once a major industry in the Fens, was also unearthed. And, a large, multiple layered deposit of burnt material, probably rubbish being dumped from the nearby settlement was also evident.
In addition, large quantities of Roman pottery were unearthed. Some of the finds were decorated and stamped red pottery, known as Samian Ware, indicating the local people were of a relatively high status. Amongst the finds are a piece from a musical instrument and a bone awl - a long, pointed spike generally used for piercing or marking materials such as leather.
Phil Manley, Project Director at Siemens, said: “It has been fascinating to see the history of the Bicker Fen area appear before our eyes. Unearthing evidence of the settlements and the way the people lived in the area will provide important data to understand the history of this area of the Lincolnshire Fens and I’m delighted the community will be able to share in the findings.”
The archaeological survey is ongoing and the first of a series of community events will take place at the Boston Guildhall on 26 June to display the findings. At the event, an innovative 3D visualization will show people images of how the site would have looked.
This event will be followed by two more on 8 and 9 July in Frithville and Burgh le Marsh focussing on the onshore cable area finds. The sessions will be led by Allen Archaeology, along with members of the Triton Knoll project team including from J Murphy & Sons and Siemens Transmission and Distribution Limited.
The Triton Knoll Offshore Wind Farm will be located approximately 32km off the Lincolnshire coast and 50km off the coast of North Norfolk. When the plant is fully operational it will be capable of generating enough energy for at least 800,000 UK homes.
