Possibly medieval holloway at 102-118 Newland Street, Witham (EHER 8174)

Trial trenching in 1985 indicated that the difference in level of 1m between Newland Street and the floors of houses in this part of the Street could be explained by the road being a hollow way.

1985. Trial trenching. Prior to development, a trial trench was dug on what seemed to be a relatively large undisturbed area within the medieval town, fronting on the Roman road. The trench uncovered remains of, presumably, the last building that stood on the site (see EHER 8173). Below this, was what seemed to be natural gravel, apparently an intact river terrace above the Brain. Newland Street formed a hollow way cutting into it. Prior to excavation, it was thought that the discrepancy in level between street and house was due to the slope having been built up in a series of terraces for the houses. The lack of occupation earlier than the latest brick building may be due to levelling prior to its construction, although features cut into the gravel may be revealed by an area excavation (see Site Assessment). <1> <2> Site Assessment: If the level is reduced when development takes place, the possible presence of cut features in the gravel should be checked. <1>