Pleistocene sediments, Rectory Road, Overcliff Road, Grays (EHER 14424)

An assessment was carried out prior to redevelopment uncovering Pleistocene sediments to North of east side of main quarry protected as it is an Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

Evaluation, 1991 An assessment was carried out prior to redevelopment. Seven sections were excavated/cleared in the former quarry faces at the periphery of the site, six within the development area and the seventh to the south of the area. It was only this latter section in which contained the artefact bearing terrace gravels similar to those found in the nearby Globe Pit (EHCR 1704-5). Two struck flakes were recovered from the exposures in section 7. <1> <2> Site located within the boundary of a former quarry. Quarry site (EX 476) assessed and visited by F. Wenban-Smith (Nov 2003) as part of ASLF project (Aggregates Levy Sustainability Fund). Current status: Pleistocene sediments to North of east side of main quarry protected as Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Main quarry area built up, houses etc. Northwest extension waste ground with undergrowth and pallet yard at N end. Open space with children's play area between built-up area and waste ground. Condition: SSSI becoming overgrown with thorn trees and undergrowth. Well-maintained in built up residential area. Unkempt/overgrown with scrub and thorn trees in undeveloped NW extension. Surviving Pleistocene sediments: Sediments preserved in SSSI to north of eastern side of main quarry, SE of Overcliff Road, southern part, behind garages off (to N) Newburgh Road; old locations of Wymer's and Snelling's work just about visible, plus sections exposed in W-facing, S-facing and E-facing faces of SSSI. Thin (ca.1.5m) inaccessible layer of gravels at top of S-facing face of NW quarry extension. Imminent threats/actions/issues: None, but potential for works on adjoining properties/space to SSSI. Archaeological recording of cleaned sections recommended. Problem with access and damage from unkept scrub. <3> <4>