Lincoln Eastern Bypass archaeology hits the road next month

The August archaeology road show includes ‘Meet the Archaeologist’ drop-in events, complete with artefact displays and activities; a photography workshop; and a pub quiz.  

 

Cllr Richard Davies, executive member for highways, said: “The volume of archaeology we’ve uncovered as part of the bypass project is unprecedented. In fact, it’s one of the largest archaeological projects ever carried out in Lincolnshire.

 

“Because of this, it’s really important to offer people the chance to find out more about the rich history that’s been discovered underneath their feet.

 

“That’s why these events will offer the opportunity to meet the archaeology team, see some of the spectacular ancient artefacts that have been discovered and experience what’s involved in carrying out such a large scale archaeological excavation.”

The Lincoln Eastern Bypass archaeology road show includes:

Archaeology Road Show Drop-in Events, 12pm to 6pm

Thursday 9 August at Washingborough Community Centre (LN4 1AB)

Thursday 30 August at Cherry Willingham Village Hall (LN3 4DU)

Not only will visitors have the chance to meet the archaeologists and discover ancient artefacts, but there will also be a range of activities for young and old including sandbox archaeology digs and colouring for kids; archery; the chance to work with stone flints; and interactive archaeological site survey demonstrations.

In addition, visitors can meet representatives from Lincolnshire County Council and Galliford Try to discuss the bypass scheme and better understand what goes into constructing such a large piece of infrastructure.

All are welcome. No booking is necessary. Refreshments will be available for a small donation.

Archaeology Photography Workshop, 1pm to 5pm

Friday 17 August at International Bomber Command Centre, Canwick (LN4 2RF)

The team from Network Archaeology will offer the chance to snap smartphone photos of Lincoln’s historic skyline and of actual artefacts uncovered during the Lincoln Eastern Bypass excavations.

The workshops will be led by a professional archaeologist and will be an hour long. They are free to attend, but pre-registration is required. Sessions are scheduled for 1:15pm, 2:30pm and 3:45pm. To book a place, visit www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/leb. Those without internet access can ring 01522 782040 for assistance with booking.

For those simply wanting to meet the archaeology team and see the finds, a display will be set-up with Network Archaeology on-hand to offer insight and answer questions.

Archaeology Pub Quiz, 7:30pm to 10:30pm

Thursday 23 August at the Butcher and Beast, Heighington (LN4 1JS)

In addition to meeting the archaeology team and examining the remarkable artefacts discovered as part of the Lincoln Eastern Bypass, guests can test their knowledge of archaeology and history during a fun, but challenging, pub quiz.

The quiz will start at 9pm and costs £1 per person. Spaces are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-serve basis on the evening.

Cllr Richard Davies added: “It’s incredibly important when digging holes and building new roads that we protect the history of this county and country, and we’ve done a very good job of that with this project. 

 

“Over the past two years, Network Archaeology has uncovered 250,000 artefacts representing 12,000+ years of Witham Valley human history as part of the work they’ve carried out.

 

“This includes several internationally-important discoveries, like a Neolithic & Bronze Age riverside ceremonial landscape, a Bronze Age oak log-boat, and a Mid Saxon Christian cemetery with over 500 skeletons.

 

“The next stage of the archaeological work will be analysing and reporting on all of these discoveries, so we can better understand what these artefacts mean and how they fit into what was happening here thousands of years ago.”

The 7.5km Lincoln Eastern Bypass project is part-funded by a £50m Central Government capital grant and aims to improve Lincoln’s infrastructure, encourage growth, minimise traffic congestion and enhance the inter-city environment.

For the latest news on the Lincoln Eastern Bypass, visit www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/leb.

About the Lincoln Eastern Bypass

 

  • The 7.5km road will link the A158 Wragby Road roundabout to the A15 at Bracebridge Heath
  • The road will cut congestion in the city centre and it is predicted that traffic on Broadgate will be reduced by 25 per cent
  • The road will help unlock housing and economic developments around Lincoln, which are estimated to add around £600m to the value of the county economy
  • The road is the penultimate step in creating a ring road for the city
  • The long-term benefits will greatly outweigh any short-term disruption
  • Further details can be found at www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/leb