A CONSTRUCTION company has called in a team of archaeologists after unearthing a piece of local history at the start of a building project.

Gus Robinson Developments began work on a 30-home development at Coxhoe at the start of last month, on the site of the former Coxhoe Potteries.

But the builders had to rearrange their schedule after discovering large parts of a kiln once the foundation work started.

A team from Archaeological Research Services were called in to inspect the discovery, and further excavation unearthed a larger site which dates back to the mid-19th century.

Historians say several brick and tile works were located around the village in the mid-1800s, producing pipes, pots and earthenware.

Research carried out by the team suggests the site was initially used as a brickworks before being transformed into a kiln, keeping some of the original features.

Ellen Hagan, technical manager for Gus Robinson Developments, said: “We knew there was a planning condition on the site prior to starting the work that stated that any findings would have to be monitored that was of archaeological interest.

“We haven’t experienced anything like this on any of our previous projects, so it’s all quite exciting.

“We’re seeing history being unearthed on a daily basis when we come to work.”

In recent years, the site had been derelict wasteland and a fly-tipping hotspot and as part of the current work asbestos and a large amount of the invasive plant species Japanese knotwood has to be been removed.

Chris Scott, who heads the regional team for Archaeological Research Services, said: “This is quite an interesting site, and from what we have discovered I would say it was a good sized business.

“We have unearthed at least two kilns and various bits and pieces which would suggest there has been a continuation of industry on the site.

“Once the buildings have been flattened the land has just been left, so I’d say this has been covered over for at least the last 50 years.”

Chris and his colleagues will compile a report once their work is completed, including photographs and drawings, and hope to be able to deliver their findings to community groups in Coxhoe.

Gus Robinson Developments Ltd is carrying out the work on behalf of Prince Bishop Homes, and despite the unexpected delay, the site is expected to be completed by next May.