Timeline. The Archaeology of the South Wales Gas Pipeline: Excavations between Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire and Tirley, Gloucestershire

The construction of a natural gas pipeline between 2005 and 2007 resulted in numerous archaeological discoveries, including sites of national significance, providing valuable radiocarbon and environmental datasets. The earliest activity dates back to Mesolithic and Neolithic periods, with evidence of pits, timber houses, henge, Beaker and Bronze Age settlements, burial remains, Early Bronze Age houses, burnt mounds, Iron Age settlement, Roman roads, crop-processing ovens, and ironworking. Rare evidence for the early medieval period and later farmsteads and field systems was also found.

Format: Hardback
Length: 214 pages
Publication date: 05 April 2021
Publisher: Cotswold Archaeological Trust Ltd

The construction of a natural gas pipeline between 2005 and 2007 traversed southern Wales, extending into Herefordshire and Gloucestershire. This ambitious project not only unearthed a multitude of archaeological treasures but also provided valuable radiocarbon and environmental datasets for the region.

The archaeological discoveries made during the pipeline construction shed light on the region's rich history. The earliest evidence of human activity dates back to the Mesolithic period, with worked flint indicating early tool-making. Neolithic communities were represented by pits, suggesting the presence of temporary timber structures, and the discovery of a previously unknown henge added to the intrigue.

During the Beaker and Bronze Age, settlement and burial remains were uncovered, including rare artifacts such as a copper halberd. Beaker and Bronze Age houses, as well as numerous burnt mounds, provided insights into the social and economic structures of the time.

The excavations also revealed significant evidence for Iron Age settlement, with some discoveries even occurring in areas of upland. Roman roads, crop-processing ovens, and ironworking sites further enriched our understanding of the region's historical development.

Rare evidence for the early medieval period was also found, along with the remnants of later farmsteads and field systems. The transition towards industrialization was evident with the discovery of a brick kiln and charcoal-burning platforms.

The construction of the natural gas pipeline not only uncovered a wealth of archaeological knowledge but also contributed to our understanding of the region's environmental heritage. The radiocarbon and environmental datasets generated during the project will be invaluable for future research and conservation efforts.

In conclusion, the construction of the natural gas pipeline in southern Wales and its extension into Herefordshire and Gloucestershire has been a remarkable archaeological journey. The discoveries made during the project have shed light on the region's rich history, from the Mesolithic to the early medieval period. The pipeline construction has also provided valuable datasets for environmental research and conservation, ensuring that the legacy of this remarkable region is preserved for generations to come.

Weight: 898g
Dimension: 194 x 254 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780993454578