ANCIENT Roman fields and clay pits have been uncovered during surveys of land near Lydiard Park which is the subject of housing proposals.

Developer Taylor Wimpey commissioned the survey work ahead of submitting a formal application for 50 homes on the border of protected heritage land at Lydiard Tregoze.

And, halfway through their three-week analysis of the site, Wessex Archaeology says it has found clay pits and field borders.

However, Taylor Wimpey says the find will not scupper its plans unless something more significant is unearthed.

The discovery comes after initial geophysical surveys identified the potential for buried archaeological features.

Fragments of Roman pottery have since been unearthed.

Indications suggest the site had been used as agricultural fields, with a section possibly used for clay extraction.

The clay would have been used for Roman pottery and tile kilns, many of which have been excavated nearby in recent years.

Wessex Archaeology investigations at a site 300m away from the current project, found a significant Roman building.

And it is believed these latest finds would have been an extension of that agricultural site.

A Taylor Wimpey spokesman said: “An archaeological investigation is being conducted at the proposed development site by Wessex Archaeology, on behalf of Taylor Wimpey.

“This is a standard requirement for most planning applications and is being monitored by Wiltshire Council Archaeology Service.

“Initial work at the site has identified some evidence of early Roman field boundaries and clay pits, though no evidence has been found to date to suggest any buildings, structures or settlement within the site.

“The investigation is still in its early stages and, once complete, the results will be assessed by the local planning authority to determine if further archaeological works or appropriate mitigation measures will be necessary. Based on the current information, there would appear to be no constraint to any proposed future development.”

Councillors and residents are gearing up to fight the proposals, which fall within the boundaries of Wiltshire.

Councillor Tim Swinyard, (Con, Lydiard and Freshbrook), said: “While I warn caution, I do so as this in in Wiltshire’s borders and this is not the first time we have faced such a dilemma.

“That being said, I cannot imagine a Planning Inspector in the country who would let housing be built not only so close to historic land and buildings, but right in the sight of it.

“We need everyone who cares deeply for Lydiard to work together to oppose this development.

“While we want the best deal should they somehow get permission, we are wholeheartedly against this and we need as much support as possible.”