EHG6339 - Trial trenching - east of Nigg Energy Park, Nigg

A trial trenching evaluation was carried out by AOC Archaeology Group in 2024 at the proposed site of the Nigg HV cable factory. Fifty-seven trenches were excavated across the development area, with one additional recorded and sampled that was excavated by the groundworks contractor. These identified a small number of dispersed archaeological features, including a shell midden, and several areas of complex buried soil sequences within the former dune system. The watching brief recorded an area of the buried soils in more detail, monitored the machine excavation of a northeastern well site, and collected samples during the demolition of the only surviving roofed cottage. Given the presence of archaeological features and deposits within the development area, and the well-preserved historic structures, it was recommended that all samples be appraised by relevant specialists and any further analysis be undertaken as outlined by them. <1>