EHG3437 - Desk based assessment and walkover survey, Burn of Whilk Anemometer Mast

AOC Archaeology Group undertook an archaeological walkover survey and Desk-Based Assessment of the site of a proposed 70 m temporary anemometer mast and associated access routes at Burn of Whilk, East Clyth, Lybster, Caithness, Highland. Cartographic and bibliographic sources, including previous assessment works undertaken for the proposed Burn of Whilk wind farm by AOC indicate that the area surrounding the proposed development has been one of considerable cultural activity from prehistory to the present day, though the area surrounding the proposed access track and anemometer mast is now covered by dense forestry plantation. The Moss of Whilk, a Scheduled Ancient Monument, stands to the west of the proposed access track, and late 19th century Ordnance Survey mapping indicates that buildings and an enclosure were located to the east of the access track route at Torr-dubh. This latter heritage asset was not visible during a walkover of the route in November 2010, but an extensive area of peat cuttings was identified in the area of the proposed anemometer mast. <1>