Multi-phase Prehistoric Occupation at Newbigging Quarry
The data structure report for an excavation undertaken by AOC Archaeology Group at Newbigging Quarry has recently been submitted. This report outlines the results of works associated with the first stage of a proposed extension to the quarry, and followed on from an initial evaluation undertaken in 2007. Subsequent stages in the expansion of the quarry will involve further phases of archaeological fieldwork. This fieldwork is required as a condition of planning consent, as advised by the West of Scotland Archaeology Service.
Excavation recorded a variety of archaeological features, widely dispersed across the proposed quarry extension. These included pits, yeilding early Neolithic to early Bronze Age pottery and lithics, possible occupation layers and linear cuts, found within the central and northern part of the site. In the southern section of the proposed quarry extension, a relic trackway was identified, aligned north-east ot south-west along the crest of a steep ridge.
Approximately 300 fragments of early prehistoric pottery were retrieved from the excavation. The assemblage comprises rim, body and base sherds of Early Neolithic impressed ware and possible grooved ware fragments that may derived from the late Neolithic / Early Bronze Age period. Concentrations of pottery were noted within some contexts suggesting that significant proportions of vessels had been deposited, raising the possibility that reconstruction on paper of the overall size and shape of some of the vessels may be possible. At least one pit appeared to have been deliberately lined with pottery, as shown in the image above. A quantity of lithic material was also recovered, consisting of approximately 20 lithic flakes, one flint scraper and a saddle quern. The photograph below shows this quern following the removal of the associated pit fill.
In the southern section of the proposed quarry extension, a trackway was identified. A Roman Road, course uncertain, is depicted at Newbigging on the Ordnance Survey's "Historical Map and Guide to Roman Britain". Given the alignment of the track, it is conceivable that this track may represent the remains of such a road.
Along with the DSR, a post excavation reseach design has also been submitted. This sets out the programme of analysis that will be undertaken on the excavated material in order to resolve questions relating to the origins, chronology and functions of the various features identified on the site. In addition to this, further phases of evaluation and excavation will take place in association with subsequent extensions to the quarry.