Introduction
We were invited by the client to carry out a geophysical survey of 2 hectares of land within an archaeologically sensitive area of Margam Park, where a sequence of features from the prehistoric up to more modern times could be threatened by a proposed development. We were given two main objectives, to identify the presence and extent of any archaeological deposits, and to interpret geophysical anomalies in order to suggest the character and likely condition of any possible features.
Background
The area in which the survey was carried out, was grade 1 listed parkland to the south east of Port Talbot, and the site has been a focus for activity since the Iron Age. The survey area lay on levelled ground and the bedrock was known to be Palaeozoic sandstone, and the soils were known to be well drained loamy soils. A magnetic survey was carried out using a Geomatrix G-858, and a resistance survey was carried out using a Geoscan RM15 Resistivity Meter.
Findings
The results of both surveys contained a density of information and confirmed the presence of disturbed ground and metal debris, which would be expected in an area so close to a well used monument.
Conclusions
From our investigations, we were able to tell the client that the surveys had been successful in mapping subsurface features, which were both dense and well-preserved. The data that was gathered was dominated by the remains of relatively recent activity which was perhaps related to the nearby 19th Century house.
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