Pre-project archaeological survey unearths finds at Fort Widley

Preparatory works undertaken for a multi-million pound upgrade project by Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) with ADAS Archaeology in the Fort Widley area of Hampshire have uncovered archaeological finds dating back to the time of Henry VIII.

Ahead of the main works, SSEN completed a detailed assessment to establish whether construction of the proposed project might affect the local environment. This included archaeological, ecological and hydrological studies, and consultation with key stakeholders such as Portsmouth City Council, Hampshire County Council and Natural England.

It was apparent from these assessments that the local landscape is one of high archaeological and historic interest. ADAS archaeologists closely supervised the project for this reason. It was during this supervision that the team unearthed a long-forgotten and uncharted parish boundary marker stone, zig-zag defence trenches from World War II, and a penny made in the 1500s.

“Now that these finds have been recognised and recorded, SSEN’s works are underway to boost the resilience and capacity of the underground power network for our customers in and around the Fort Widley and Fareham areas; helping them to meet their net zero goals through a network fit for the future.”

Ben continued:

“SSEN’s project team would like to thank Portsmouth City Council, Hampshire County Council and ADAS for their assistance and support during the months these preparatory works were undertaken and for enabling us to take the time to carry them out with the maximum consideration for the environment and its archaeology. Through this partnership working, we have been able to find these historic items which are part of Portsmouth’s heritage.”

“Our archaeological investigations carried out ahead of the development have also led to several really interesting new discoveries; including a previously unknown section of 19th or 20th century zig-zag military training trenches associated with Fort Widley, a previously unknown post-medieval parish boundary stone and a penny dating from the time of Henry VIII.”

ADAS are currently assessing the artefacts recovered. Once the final archaeological report is submitted and the project completed, they will be transferred over to the relevant legal landowner or the local museum.

Set to complete in the summer of 2024, SSEN’s programme of works will include the replacement of 2.2km of cable with modern and more efficient underground cables. This will connect to the transmission tower in Paulsgrove, providing a robust and flexible network for some 120,000 local homes and businesses.