NHER 52196 (Cropmark and Earthwork record) - Earthworks and cropmarks of Roman or medieval to post-medieval linear embankment

March 2009. Norfolk NMP.
The possible cropmarks of a series of fragmentary and irregular ditches potentially represent the remains of former field boundaries, either pre-dating or post-dating the extramural settlement (NHER 52194) of the Roman town of Venta Icenorum (NHER 9786) are visible on aerial photographs (S1-S3). The site is centred on TG 2272 0341. The site consists of low bank or surfaced road segment, 3.5m across, flanked by two ditches or drains. This bank or road appears to lead from the Roman Pye Road (NHER 7947) towards the River Tas and the tow to the east. It is possible that this formed a minor branch road towards the town, although it seems unlikely that there would be too river crossings within such close proximity to one another; the main one being 100m to the north. It is likely that there was a wharf alongside the town and it is possible that the branch road lead towards this. Alternatively the earthworks may merely represent the remains of medieval to post medieval drainage ditches and embankments.
S. Horlock (NMP), 23 March 2009.