Archaeologists working on behalf of SHE Transmission have uncovered what is being described as 'a discovery of national significance' near an electrical substation at Leylodge, Kintore in Aberdeenshire.
The remains of a 14/15th century medieval farm building and numerous pieces of pottery were found whilst carrying out surveys in the area.
Keith Thomson, Environmental Project Manager, SHE Transmission, said: “We are constantly reviewing how we can enhance or upgrade our transmission network. When we are carrying out site investigations, we need to have an archaeologist on site for areas with known archaeological remains. However, in some places there is ‘unknown archaeology’ where the history or landscape suggests there may be archaeology that has not yet been uncovered.
“In line with environmental management best practice and as a responsible developer, we choose to always have an archaeological specialist on site that can halt operations if archaeology is discovered to ensure that we do not damage what may be a significant find.”
Working on behalf of SHE Transmission, Maureen Kilpatrick of Guard Archaeology, said: “We have uncovered a large enclosure with floor deposits and pottery. Discoveries like this rarely survive in rural areas as the ground is usually used for rural purposes and is ploughed or used for cattle or livestock. This late medieval discovery is something quite special.”
Bruce Mann, Archaeologist, Aberdeenshire Council, said: “Rural buildings from this period are extremely rare in Scotland, and to be able to properly investigate one through archaeological excavation will help us hugely in understanding farming life at this time. I would like to thank both SHE Transmission and Guard Archaeology Ltd for their hard work which has resulted in this fantastic find.”
This rare find is particularly significant in terms of the cultural heritage of rural Scotland and is the latest of many finds by SHE Transmission. Previous discoveries have included Pittentian Circle by Crieff, original sections of a 250 mile road built by General Wade in the 18th century and a 43 meter longhouse near Loch Buidhe.
You can find out more about our transmission projects by visiting SSEPD.co.uk.