PCA Durham was commissioned to undertake an archaeological evaluation on land at the former Ashfield Works, Otley, West Yorkshire. This work was undertaken in association with a proposed planning application for the demolition of derelict buildings and the construction of a new care home with associated vehicle parking.

The archaeological potential of the site was initially highlighted by a desk-based assessment which noted that the development area on the north side of Westgate is located in close proximity to the site of a medieval Manor House, Hall Garth, a former Palace of the Archbishop’s of York, as well as earlier buildings. It is likely that levelling activity associated with the establishment of the former Ashfield Foundry, a now demolished printing press manufactory, was undertaken across the area to prevent flooding which may overlie earlier archaeological remains.

The trial trench evaluation was undertaken according to a Specification approved by the West Yorkshire Archaeology Advisory Service for three trenches located across the site in areas without obstructions. This phase of archaeological work was within the area of a proposed new access route only, located immediately to the north of Westgate.

Four phases of activity were encountered, the earliest being superficial geological deposits, that were cut in by medieval ditches and a pit and other undated features. These were sealed by undated colluvium which in turn were either sealed by post-medieval dumps or cut by a substantial drainage feature in Trench 3. No further work was deemed necessary and a report on the findings has been prepared to satisfy planning conditions.

On completion of the fieldwork a report was prepared which was submitted to the LPA in support of the application.