130-136 Stricklandgate, Kendal, Cumbria: Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment

Following a planning application submitted for the erection of a hotel and restaurant and alterations to buildings at 130-136 Stricklandgate, Kendal, Cumbria a programme of archaeological investigation was recommended by the Cumbria County Council Historic Environment Service (CCCHES). The area certainly has medieval origins, and the distinctive elongated burgage plots running either side of the main street are indicative of this. Previous work at several sites along Stricklandgate has revealed extensive evidence of activity dating from the late 12th century onwards. On the opposite side of Maude Street, to the rear of 110-112 Stricklandgate, a large number of features relating to activity in the rear sections of burgage plots was uncovered, principally belonging to two phases, one from the 12th to 14th century, the other the 14th to 17th century.

The map regression showed that the site included areas of built-up street frontage, partially in-filled plots to the rear, and the edge of fields beyond. Deposited plans showed the location of buildings and petrol tanks added during the 20th century as part of a garage. The site visit revealed that standing buildings for which demolition was proposed were of negligible archaeological or historical merit, and no recording work was required, however, the map regression, together with information from intrusive geotechnical work carried out as part of earlier site investigations, revealed areas of differing archaeological potential, and differing disturbance. Based on this, and considering the impact of the proposed development, it was recommended that the site be archaeologically evaluated.

The full report is available on the Archaeology Data Service website: https://archaeologydataservice.ac.uk/archiveDS/archiveDownload?t=arch-700-1/dissemination/pdf/greenlan1-40474_1.pdf