An archaeological survey of the new BruBowl skatepark site at Jubilee Park will begin on Monday, 29 April.
Somerset Council Planning have required this investigation, following an Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment from Wessex Archaeology that confirmed significant archaeological remains are very likely to be present on the site, relating to the Romano-British, Anglo-Saxon and medieval periods. These include a suspected Roman road, which is believed to run diagonally beneath the football pitches, from the gate in the north-west corner towards the south-east of the park.
The BruBowl, envisioned and crafted by the renowned skatepark architects Mavericks, is set to transform the current Jubilee Park ramp into a skater’s haven. This state-of-the-art facility will boast an expansive interconnected street area, featuring a variety of ramps, rails, and a signature bowl section, designed to accommodate and inspire anyone of all ages, styles, and skill levels.
Bruton Town Council, in partnership with the landlords, Hugh Sexey’s Hospital, and Mavericks, are committed to preserving the historical integrity of Jubilee Park while promoting the cultural and sporting life of the community through the BruBowl project.
We regret that access for walkers via the gate in the north-east corner of Jubilee Park will not be possible during this archeological investigation, owing to the presence of trenches and trench-digging machinery. An alternative walking route is available via the gate in the south-east, beneath the Dovecot. We will put up diversion notices at the Jubilee Park entrance, and the Abbey Ponds end.
Our archaeologists politely requested that people avoid visiting the site until they have completed their work. They know how interested many are in archaeology, but I want to avoid unnecessary disturbance of their work, however well meaning!
Aerial photo of Jubilee Park, showing alternative walking route during the archaeological investigations.
Vicki Haselgrove, community leader for the BruBowl, said:
“We have raised an astonishing £87,000 so far, and with planning permission in place, we can make the final push for the rest including match funding to reach our target. It’s been a long time in the process but we’re so excited to be in the final stages of getting this in the ground… Roman roads aside”
Stuart Anderton, Chair of Bruton Town Council, said:
“The planning requirement for an archaeological survey is a fascinating opportunity to discover the history of an area of town that is currently unrecorded. We look forward to seeing what is discovered – but please ask that residents and visitors let the archaeologists remain undisturbed during their important work.
Further details of the BruBowl Skatepark can be found at: https://brubowl.uk/
