1,900 year-old section of Hadrian’s Wall discovered under busy Newcastle street

A section of Hadrian’s Wall has been uncovered on West Road, just outside of Newcastle city centre.
Northumbrian Water workers uncovered a section of Hadrian’s Wall under West Road in Newcastle Northumbrian Water workers uncovered a section of Hadrian’s Wall under West Road in Newcastle
Northumbrian Water workers uncovered a section of Hadrian’s Wall under West Road in Newcastle

The 1,900-year-old discovery was made by workers from Northumbrian Water following routine work.

While carrying out the work, a team from Northumbrian Water discovered a three-metre long stretch of the wall.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

This section is believed to have been from an early phase of the wall’s development, as it was constructed with larger blocks of stone rather than smaller pieces like the later parts of the wall.

Project Manager for Northumbrian Water, Graeme Ridley, said: “It is amazing that we have been able to make this brilliant discovery, and we are glad to be working with Archaeological Research Services to make sure that it is properly protected going forwards.

“This is an incredibly special part of North East heritage and we are honoured to be a part of it.”

“We are still have completed work in the area and this vital work is being carried out in order to futureproof our water supplies and ensure that our customers continue to receive excellent and high-quality tap water.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Philippa Hunter from Archaeological Research Services Ltd said: “Despite the route of Hadrian’s Wall being fairly well documented in this area of the city, it is always exciting when we encounter the wall’s remains and have the opportunity to learn more about this internationally significant site.

“This is particularly true in this instance where we believe that we uncovered part of the wall’s earliest phase. It is always a pleasure working closely with Northumbrian Water who take the preservation of archaeological remains such as these very seriously.”

Northumbrian Water have confirmed that the planned pipe-route of the water main could be angled to leave a buffer around the excavated trench.

The pipe cleaning programme is part of a £66 million overhaul that involves cleaning nine kilometres of water mains at 18 different locations around Newcastle, Gateshead and North Tyneside.

Related topics: