No more excavations like at Mound site

Future heritage projects are being considered in Newtown following the conclusion of archaeological excavations at The Mound.

Newtown Town Council’s Economy and Environment Committee has been told that no further excavation work is planned at the medieval motte after two seasons of digs in 2022 and again earlier this year. Archaeologists concluded that there would be little more to learn from further investigation of the structure itself, and that applying for Scheduled Monument consent from CADW would not bring demonstrable benefit.

Despite that, councillors heard that the excavations have been a major success in engaging local people and visitors with the town’s history. The project has been shortlisted for a national Archaeology Achievement Award in recognition of its community involvement, and it has sparked renewed interest in Newtown’s medieval past.

The council now intends to build on that momentum. A series of possible heritage projects has been identified by Tourism Project Officer Gary Ball, including a 3D survey of St Mary’s Church, an ecology and heritage study at two nearby Iron Age hillforts, a condition and survey project at Gro Tump, community test pits along the earthwork beside The Mound, and a “Beneath Your Feet” initiative to explore Newtown’s historic cellars. Councillors will be asked to select two of these to move forward as part of the 2026-27 workplan.

The report also confirmed that a tender for a Brilliant Basics-funded access and interpretation scheme at The Mound will be issued on 1 October. This scheme is expected to improve accessibility to the site and provide more information for visitors.

The Mound excavations have been described as a milestone in reconnecting local people with their heritage and in highlighting the potential of heritage tourism in Newtown. They also link with the town’s wider “Finding a NEW Route” plan, which is focused on tourism development.

Councillors are expected to decide later this year which of the proposed heritage projects will be prioritised as the town looks to strengthen its growing reputation as a destination for cultural and historical tourism.