EHG4906 - Watching Briefs - 33kV Grudie Bridge to Kinlochewe Powerline

Archaeological watching briefs undertaken on a section of a new 33kv power line between Grudie Bridge, at the head of Loch Luichart, and Taagan, at the head of Loch Maree, 2km north-west of Kinlochewe. Scotia Archaeology was commissioned by Scottish & Southern Energy plc (SSE) to undertake a desk study of archaeological and historical sites on or in close proximity to the route of the new line. This study was followed by walk-over surveys of the route, the work being carried out by John Lewis between November 2014 and April 2015 and, where part of the route was changed around Loch a Chroisg near Achnasheen, in February 2016. A range of sites of archaeological significance were identified by the desk study and several more brought to light by the walk-over surveys. One area that proved to have a rich archaeological landscape lies a short distance to the north of Kinlochewe and the hamlet of Incheril. Within this area are what appear to be remnants of prehistoric settlements and several burial mounds together with two pre-Improvement townships or farmsteads. Watching briefs were considered important at the above locations because of the very close proximity of pre-Improvement settlements to new poles. Although the pole trenches would not impinge directly on any visible structures or features, it was possible that associated features, such as the buried remains of buildings, early field systems or roads, might be revealed by excavation. <1>