PALYNOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF BRITISH RAIL SECTIONS AT STANSTED AIRPORT, ESSEX
Author(s): P E J Wiltshire
Pollen analysis was carried out on portions of two sections of alluvial deposits which had been exposed by excavations associated with the new rail link serving the airport. The analysis showed that prior to 3350 BP, the site was dominated by mixed woodland with Alnus and Tilia being important components. There was some indication of minor woodland disturbance at about 3550 BP and after a period of woodland regeneration, more extensive clearance began at about 3350 BP. By about 3000 BP, the site had developed extensive reed swamp and there was evidence for mixed farming. Although Saxon artefacts were exceedly rare at Stansted, pollen analysis showed that the area presented a virtually cleared landscape with local reed swamp and mixed farming in Saxon times.
- Report Number:
- 8/1991
- Series:
- AML Reports (New Series)
- Pages:
- 16
- Keywords:
- Plant Remains Pollen
