PCA Winchester was commissioned to supervise a series of geotechnical investigations associated with Porchester Coastal Frontage Flood and Erosion Risk Management Scheme.

The archaeological potential derives from the site’s proximity to the Scheduled Monument, Porchester Castle, which has a long and complex history. This monument was originally constructed in the late Roman period as a defensive fort, one of a series of coastal defences constructed to meet the threat of Saxon raids. Reuse of the castle is evidenced during the Saxon period when a ‘burh’, or defended settlement, was added in the late 10th century. Further additions were applied to the structure in the late 11th century in the form of a tower castle keep. As its name suggests the Castle’s history has predominantly been associated with defence, associated with its commanding position overlooking Portsmouth Harbour, however, the remains of an early 12th century Augustinian priory can also be found in the outer bailey of the castle.

The archaeological works, a watching brief (monitoring and recording), comprised a total of 8 boreholes and 13 trial pits across a wide area surrounding the castle. This included the frontage and foreshore along the eastern shores of Portchester and the southern shore of Paulsgrove. These investigations revealed a distinctive natural deposition sequence through stratigraphic records made at the site but no significant archaeological remains were encountered and the project continued efficiently.

The programme of works was concluded, and the results were reported on in line with planning regulations.