Medieval remains found at Oxfordshire development
Medieval remains have been discovered during excavation of a site in Eynsham, Oxfordshire.
The development by company Savills is a residential construction of eight homes on the site of Abbey Farm.
But during works to the site buildings and pottery dating back to the twelfth century were uncovered.
It was previously believed a later ancient settlement used the site and Planning and Listed Building Consent for the project was secured.
But the findings could point to a longer history.
Since the discovery of the medieval remains archaeologist John Moore from Heritage Services has been taking care of the findings.
“Whilst the discovery won’t delay the development at Abbey Farm, it does shed light on the possibility that the Abbey complex which was originally founded under charter granted by King Aethelred was far more extensive than previously was thought,” Mike Sheppard, project surveyor at Savills Oxford said.
The security of the remains has been promised and the findings will be released when more is known about the history of the site.
“The project has involved detailed design work to guarantee original features are maintained in the converted properties and the latest discovery adds another attractive dimension to the buildings,” he said.
Farmers, such as the ones residing at Abbey Farm, were the leading taxpayers in this area in the 16th and 17th century.
Abbey Farm was one of numerous farming houses in the area including Twelve Acre Farm, the Elms, the Gables and the Shrubbery.
