Boat Lane housing development unearths medieval human remains

As part of archaeological work at a new housing site in Boat Lane, a number of medieval structures have been unearthed including a sophisticated stone-built bridge, human remains and metalwork, all dating back to at least the 14th century.

It was expected the site may be historically important because of Abbot Chyryton’s wall which although mainly buried, runs through the site and dates back to medieval times.

Fragments of ironwork have also been uncovered which suggests complicated manufacturing took place on the site.

READ MORE: Development plans halted by discovery of human remains

FOUND: The brown spindlewhorl found in Evesham

A bone spindle whorl and 12th to 14th century green glazed pottery and cooking vessels have also been unearthed.

It is now believed the site shares a connection with Pershore Abbey's medieval past.

Aidan Smyth, Wychavon District Council’s archaeology and planning advisor, said: "These are very significant discoveries that have changed our understanding of how medieval Evesham evolved.

"We are still carrying out analysis so we can learn more about what we have found, and what it means for medieval Evesham, but at the moment it shows medieval settlement in Evesham extends far beyond where we currently thought the boundary ended.

"The type and quality of the buildings found also suggest this was a high status site occupied by people of wealth, perhaps merchants, or those high up within the Church.

DISCOVERY: Pottery found in Evesham

"The buildings could have had some connection to Evesham Abbey or it may have been an industrial site used for complex and high-end manufacturing. The location by the river and its detachment from where most people lived would make it perfect for manufacturing.

"At the moment these are all theories but it’s exciting and has undoubtedly caused us to rethink what we thought we knew about medieval Evesham and its development."

The findings are being recorded and artefacts will be removed for further analysis before being stored in the appropriate place.

Although the discoveries at the site are archaeologically significant, work will still be able to start once the archaeology condition attached to the granted planning permission has been met.