Home extension approved – on ancient Roman site

PLANNING chiefs at Warrington have approved proposals for a rear extension at a semi-detached house – subject to an archaeological “watching brief” while the work goes on.

The single-storey extension is planned for Louise and Mike Unsworth’s Grade 2 Listed home in Greenall’s Avenue, Warrington, which is believed to date from around 1850.
But the reason for the archaeological interest goes back rather more – to the 2nd century.

The rear garden where the extension is to be built could sit on part of the Roman settlement at Wilderspool, which is believed to have existed between the 2nd and 4th centuries.
Examples of Roman pottery have already been found during excavations for a retaining wall in the garden.
Relics that are found will remain the property of the landowner.
But in the unlikely event of human remains being found, the police and coroner will have to be informed.
And if “treasure” is discovered the coroner will again need to be informed to rule at an inquest if the “find” is indeed a treasure trove.
A number of Roman artifacts have been found in the area in the recent past – notably when the Morrison’s supermarket was being built off Wilderspool Causeway.