EHG6472 - DBA and walkover survey - proposed underground cabling, Mybster to Camster

An archaeological desk-based assessment and walkover survey were undertaken by Highland Archaeology Services in 2023 in advance of the development of around 17km of underground cable between Mybster and Camster, near Wick by SSEN. The survey identified and recorded visible archaeological remains in the vicinity of the proposed development and targeted sites identified in the desk-based assessment and sought to identify previously unrecorded sites. The walkover survey was conducted between the 11th and 13th of September 2023. One proposed portion of the route was not accessible due to commercial restrictions, but the rest was investigated. Twenty-nine features were noted within 500m of the proposed site during the DBA including four Scheduled monuments. Seven features were noted close to the proposed route during the walkover survey including a structure, two sets of bridge abutments and four dry stone walls. Six features which were noted in the DBA but were outwith the 60m wide survey corridor were also visited during the survey to assess their condition. Recommendations were made to avoid all noted features during proposed works. In addition, it was recommnded that areas of the proposed development route should be marked off and given a 20m buffer around Scheduled Monuments to prevent any damage. A watching brief was also recommended where the proposed route was go pass close to scheduled monuments. <1>