Medieval ditches and post-medieval trackway, Maltings Academy, Spinks Lane, Witham (EHER 47679)

An archaeological evaluation by trial trenching at Maltings Academy revealed medieval features.

October 2009. Trial trenching. The earliest phase consisted of three parallel north-east to south-west aligned ditches, dated by pottery evidence to the 11th-12th centuries. A later more intensive phase of activity, dating to the 13th-15th centuries, was evidenced by a curving north south aligned ditch which may form part of an enclosure, within which ten pits were recorded suggesting domestic occupation of the site. The archaeology was largely confined to an area to the north of the site with the only features recorded to the south being a late post medieval track-way and evidence of 20th century gravel quarrying. The identification of well preserved medieval archaeology at the Maltings Academy could potentially provide evidence regarding the early development of Witham, particularly as the evidence suggests that the Site was occupied during the origins of the planned new town in the early 13th century. <1> 2009-2011. Archaeological excavation and watching brief. Three phases of medieval occupation were recorded. <2>