More information : A complex of linear, rectangular and rectilinear cropmarks visible on aerial photographs taken July 11th 2003. Most differ markedly in alignment from the modern field boudaries, generally following a nne-ssw alignment (or at right angles to it). The cropmarks themselves are fragmentary, crop conditions leaving substantial areas marked by a distinct lack of clarity. The presumption is that some, if not most, will be related to the adjacent villa site SU 49 SE 2, though others may be more recent. (1)
Following English Heritage aerial reconnaissance in July 2006 the cropmark traces of a rectilinear enclosure and linear ditches described by the above authority have been re-photographed and further details observed. This has enabled a reinterpretation of the site to be undertaken. The traces of a large multi-vallate rectilinear enclosure (c. 135m x 153m) with curved corners and with traces of several phases of construction could be seen extending further to the west enclosing the site of the villa. No trace of the villa foundations could be seen as a cropmark, but the site corresponds to a darker area in the crop. To the east were a number of boundaries forming rectilinear enclosures which could be associated fields. The eastern side of the enclosure appeared to have a trackway running NNE-SSW along its side and extending south beyond the enclosure. This track is probably the same potential trackway recorded as part of the Thames Valley NMP project (SU49SE 132) AMIE UID: 1059193. The cropmark traces of Medieval ridge and furrow can be seen within the entire site fine parallel lines.
These features were mapped and recorded as part of the English Heritage Reconnaissance Recording (South) Programme. (2)
This reassessment was undertaken as part of the English Heritage: Aerial Reconnaissance (South) 2006-7 Programme. (2) |