Fascinating archaeological discoveries found during work on 32 Stodman Street

For the past few weeks, the centre of Newark has been host to an exciting archaeological dig which is exploring the history of the town dating back to the Medieval Period. This excavation is a vital part of the redevelopment phase, as it’s a once in the lifetime opportunity to look at the history underneath a key area in Newark to ensure nothing is missed before building work commences.

A specialist team from Contour Archaeology Ltd are currently completing the excavation and are developing an understanding of the historical events that occurred on the site, and its place within the history of Newark.

This work is part of ambitious plans to transform the former M&S building on Stodman Street in Newark bringing back into use and life this impressive and important building.  

Councillor Paul Peacock, Leader of Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “It’s exciting to see what unearthed discoveries might be found right in the heart of the town. Newark is rich in history so it’s important we use this time to find out more about the town and to see what we can find.  

“Without the Council’s intervention, these findings wouldn’t have come to light so we are delighted to be part of this historic moment. The work on the project will pause while we fully explore the grounds and seeking advice from archaeologists before continuing with any work."

Louise Casey-Simpson, Chair of the Newark Towns Fund, said: “It’s always fascinating to see what digs like this can tell us about our history and it’s important we undertake this process so we don’t miss the opportunity to see what certain discoveries can tell us about Newark.

“We’re excited about the 32 Stodman Street project and everyone wants a town centre that is thriving where living, working, shopping, leisure and enjoyment can all merge together.

“This is an opportunity to transform a large empty building into something that will be hugely beneficial to the health of our high street in the future. Across the country retail in towns and cities is in decline which is why we’ve put this project together to inject new life in the area with the aim to make the heart of Newark a great place to live and shop.

“There are many other projects running alongside the development including Newark Heart which has already brought people to the town centre through creating exciting events and programmes and the Stodman Street work is an extra step in encouraging more to visit, stay longer and take advantage of the activities and hospitality on offer.”

Neil Jefferson at Contour Archaeology Ltd said: “The discoveries that are being found daily by our team of archaeologists on site are highlighting the use of this area of Newark during the Medieval Period. We have found lovely, green-glazed pottery likely to be part of large jug, which is specific to this period. We have also recovered many animal bones, such as boar’s tusks as well as cow and sheep bones which indicate the type of diet Medieval people of Newark had. Our most exciting find was the intact horse burial found unexpectedly at the bottom of a large pit.”

This Newark Town Board project in partnership with Newark and Sherwood District Council, has already finished the dismantling of the former M&S building which proved a complex process.

Construction specialists Stepnell have now completed the first phase of work, all that remains now is the front façade of the building which will be worked into the new design of the building.

Tom Sewell, Director at Stepnell, said: “Through these recent finds, it’s exciting to see this project already becoming a beating heart for the local area. The creation of a space consistently appealing to the community is a core value for our related work, and we continue to strive for enhanced community collaboration across our projects in the East Midlands.

“Working alongside the project partners, we’ll continue to ensure the site is fully explored, operating safely in coordination with the pause in development.”

The first phase of work is likely to take place until late summer 2024 with the construction taking place soon after. Completion is expected to be in 2026.