EHG5644 - DBA and walkover survey - proposed distillery, Craggan

A walkover survey was undertaken by AOC Archaeology Group in 2018 of the site of a proposed distillery at Craggan. The Site was found to occupy undulating ground, bound by Craggan Outdoors (formerly Craggan golf and fishing) and the River Spey to the east; pasture land and a farm, Lower Gaich Farm, to the south; the A95 (Site 89) and mixed agricultural land to the west; and a track running north-west to the north. To the west and north lies gradually rising ground, to the south lies undulating mixed-use agricultural land and to the east of the River Spey lies undulating woodland. No previously unrecorded archaeological remains were observed during the walkover survey. Designated assets within 3km were also visited in order to assess any indirect impacts which may be caused by the Proposed Development. It was recommended that watching briefs be carried out in on ground breaking works which cross agricultural land east of the A95 between the northern and southern portions of the Site. Historic mapping suggests that this area has been occupied by small crofts and farmsteads since at least the 18th century (Site 90) and there is judged to be the a High potential for remains to survive around the existing structures and where ground breaking works are required across the post-medieval Military Road (Site 89). Given the greenfield nature of the main site, as well the potential for hitherto unknown archaeological remains, it would be advised that an archaeological evaluation by trial trenching be undertaken prior to construction of the Proposed Development. <1>