Event/Activity EPM176 - Archaeological Evaluation and Watching Brief at the Hilsea Bus Depot site, Portsmouth

Southampton Archaeology Unit carried out an evaluation followed by a watching brief on groundworks at the former Hilsea Depot site between August and November 2013. The evaluation was conducted in order to assess the preservation of archaeological remains, and the impact of a new development on the site comprising a health centre, flats and a pharmacy. Three trial trenches were excavated for the evaluation. The watching brief monitored soil remediation works for the new development. The site was of particular archaeological interest, as prior to the construction of the Hilsea Bus Depot in the early 1930s, it had been occupied by the west side of the West Bastion of the 1858 remodelled Hilsea Lines. It was thought likely that the remains of the defences still survived below ground. There was also the possibility of prehistoric activity in the area, as scattered evidence from this period had been recorded in the northern part of Portsea Island. The evaluation consisted of three trenches excavated by a machine excavator under archaeological supervision. Sections of the bases of the trenches were cleaned by hand and archaeological features and deposits recorded. Trench 1 was located in the north of the site and measured 25m long by 2.4m wide and 1.1 - 2.1m deep. Trench 2 was located in the middle of the site and measured 36.5m long by 2.4m wide and 0.9 - 2.4m deep. Trench 3 was located in the south eastern part of the site and measured 23m long by 6m wide and 0.9m deep. The watching brief was carried out on soil remediation works to remove contamination and obstructions on the site. The site was excavated to a depth of between 1.5 - 4m, and the works completely removed all of the archaeology. The work was monitored by an archaeologist, who recorded any archaeological remains that were present. In order to help with the recording the soil remediation trench was split into three trenches. Trench 4 covered the north part of the site and measured 77.5m long by 24m wide and 1 - 4m deep. Trench 5 was located in the south of the site and measured 54.5m long by 38.5m wide and 1 - 4m deep. Trench 6 was located in the middle of the site and measured 58m long by 15.5m wide and 1 - 4m deep. The evaluation revealed well-preserved remains of the 19th century Hilsea Lines and traces of prehistoric and Roman occupation. Evidence of the original 18th century Hilsea Lines was not observed, although a number of 18th century features and layers that were recorded might have been associated with it. Accession No: 2013/850