Headland Archaeology, in collaboration with Swindon Borough Council, has concluded its archaeological work at the Southern Connector Road site, unearthing remarkable findings.
Among the key discoveries are a large rectangular structure measuring 20m by 15m, Romano-British pottery, a trackway, and even human remains.
Notably, the remains belong to an adult male from around 330 AD, accompanied by coins minted in London during that era. The discovery is unique since coins are typically removed before burial. The skeleton also exhibited signs of spinal joint problems and missing teeth due to poor oral health. The coins are currently in possession of the coroner.
Thorough archaeological investigations were conducted to minimise the impact on historical remains during the construction of the Southern Connector Road.
Harriet Bryant-Buck, Project Manager at Headland Archaeology, said: “We worked closely with Swindon Borough Council, Atkins’ heritage team, ecologists, and Buckingham Group to carefully structure the work in a way that provided a balance between uncovering the history of the area and creating infrastructure for the needs of today.
“The careful planning and effective communication involved in the project enabled us to create a window into this small parcel of Wiltshire’s past, ensuring that the history of the area was not lost amidst an ever-changing landscape.”
The project has successfully preserved significant archaeological artifacts along the route. Where excavations were necessary, Headland Archaeology and the heritage team at Atkins worked closely with the Wiltshire County Archaeologist to ensure proper procedures.
The recent discoveries complement the excavations carried out in the 1960s and 1970s at the Roman Town of Durocornovium, providing valuable insights into the lives of those living on the outskirts of Roman towns. The findings shed light on the activities and lifestyles of people on the periphery.
The newly constructed 1.5-mile Southern Connector Road will connect Commonhead roundabout to the New Eastern Villages development, enhancing transportation in the area.
