Saturday 19 January 2008

Ancient and modern could bring conflict of interests on Holy Island

ARCHAEOLOGICAL finds dating back to the Anglo-Saxon period and possibly even earlier could shed new light on the history of Holy Island.

A possible Anglo Saxon timber structure, medieval houses and significant quantities of animal bone and pottery have been found.

However, the discoveries could prove a major stumbling block to plans for a much needed affordable housing scheme on Holy Island.

It is only a few weeks since Holy Island Community Development Trust submitted plans for a £500,000 development to create four much needed affordable homes at Sandham Lane.

Dick Patterson, Trust chairman, admitted: "It's given us a bit of a headache but we knew there was always a good chance there would be finds of archaeological interest on a place like Holy Island."

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