Almond Valley, Midlothian

AOC Archaeology Group undertook an archaeological desk-based assessment covering the entire 5 km route of a proposed sewer through the Almond Valley in Midlothian, which identified that the route of the pipeline ran through two Scheduled Monuments:

• A Roman field system and associated road, two marching camps and a prehistoric cursus; and
• The building remains and cemetery of Newbattle Abbey.

The pipeline also ran through part of the designed landscape associated with Newhailes House, which is owned by the National Trust of Scotland. Following discussion with Historic Scotland, the National Trust for Scotland and the Local Planning Authority Archaeological Curators for both Midlothian and East Lothian Council, a programme of archaeological works to provide adequate mitigation for the impact of the proposed sewer on archaeological remains was designed and agreed. The archaeological works comprised continuous monitoring of the pipeline route by AOC archaeologists and the complete excavation of all remains exposed. The archaeological works took place over an 18 month period and involved a fluctuating team of between 2 and 20 archaeologists from AOC Archaeology Group.

Even though the quantity and significance of archaeological remains could not be confirmed prior to the actual groundworks, AOC Archaeology Group’s involvement prevented any disruptions to the pipe laying programme, ensuring that archaeology did not prevent the overall project being delivered on time and on budget.

AOC Consultant: Lindsey Thomson
Client: Scottish Water and MJ Gleesons