NHER 27740 (Monument record) - Possibly post medieval linear structures

September 2002. Norfolk NMP.
A group of linear structures of unknown but possibly post medieval date, are visible in the inter-tidal zone on NMR oblique aerial photographs from 2000 (S1-3). These appear to be located on sandbanks of the Stiffkey Freshes to the immediate south of the Blakeney harbour channel. These were interpreted as a possibly relating to traps or weirs, possibly the mussel industry. These features can date from the saxon period through to modern times, however not enough of these features is visible to attribute a definite date or function. To the immediate north is a large complex of cobble and shingle built enclosures and structures relating to the post medieval mussel industry in the Blakeney Harbour channel (NHER 27739). It is possible that this site relates to, or is possible part of, this group of structures. Other intertidal features have also been identified in the area (NHER 38487-90).

The site is centred on TF 9891 4519. Although due to a lack of control points to aid the location of the feature from the aerial photographs, it is possible that this grid reference may be inaccurate. Hopefully the NAU Coastal Field Survey will provide further locational information for the site.

These structures appear to be slightly banked linear features on the aerial photographs. These may represent shingle banks, low walls or possibly post built alignments that have become silted over. Unfortunately the site was largely obscured by silt and the reflection of the water in the aerial photographs and therefore a site visit would be necessary to ascertain the actual construction method.

The site consists of three linear features. The clearest structure is L-shaped and runs from TF 9893 4521 to TF 9890 4522, 30m, and then turns to the south and continues to TF 9889 4518, 47m. The linear varies in width from 1-1.5m. To the north of the shorter stretch is a parallel linear running from TF 9893 4522 to TF 9891 4522, measuring 26m long. A linear runs parallel to the longer side also, from TF 9890 4519 to TF 9891 4521, 22m.
(S1-3)
S. Massey (NMP), 26 September 2002.

January 2004.
Site visited by John Wright of Blakeney in January 2004, whilst investigating NHER 27739 and 27741 to the north. The only 'structure' in the vicinty of the features visible on the aerial photographs was a line of stones trending NW-SE, composed of large irregular blocks of natural rock, lying in a straight but continuous row. This material was interpreted by John Wright as probably being ballast from an old wreck.
Comp. S. Massey (NMP), 10 May 2004.