Field survey by English Heritage at Foulness Atomic Weapons Research Establishment, Rochford, 2006-2007 - EEX62798

NRHE data transfer: The survey of the Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWRE) at Foulness Island, Essex includes ground based investigation, air photo mapping and recording, ground photography, historic research and analysis. A preliminary photographic survey has already been carried out (see EEX62803) as well as a desk based assessment (see EEX62801) in 2004. The survey covers the area within the perimeter of the AWRE at Foulness. This lies to the west of Foulness Island and is roughly bounded to the east by Churchend road between Shelford Creek and Priestwood farm, and on the other sides by the River Roach, The Middleway and Shelford Creek. The main purposes of the 2006-2007 Foulness survey area was: to produce a 1:2500 survey and description of the main facilities associated with the former AWRE Foulness site; to enhance the understanding of the historical and technological significance of the site; to contribute to English Heritage's 'England's Atomic Age' project (see EEX62806); and to inform future management of the site. The air photo mapping and recording are now complete. The main aims of the air photo survey were to depict the pattern of post medieval drainage and to ascertain if there was any archaeological evidence visible on air photos at the location of the medieval/post-medieval settlements identified in earlier surveys (Cocroft 2004 (EEX62801), Pearson 2007). Demolished pre-1945 farm buildings were also plotted. The main contribution of the air photo survey is in the depiction of features, on the 1946 vertical photographs, relating to World War Two defence and some immediate post war ballistics testing. Most of these structures were removed prior to, or early on in, the establishment of the AWRE. The air photos from 1955 onwards record the development of AWRE at regular intervals through 1955 and 1956, then less frequently until 1996. The assessment and mapping of selected features from air photos, was carried out by Helen Winton of Aerial Survey and Investigation with advice on World War Two structures from Roger JC Thomas, Military Support Officer and Wayne Cocroft, Archaeological Survey and Investigation.