Ryedale | Archive | 2003 | August | 06
From the Gazette & Herald, first published Wednesday 6th Aug 2003.
WORK starts on Monday to build a large retail unit out of two smaller shops in an effort to attract new businesses to Malton.
Roddy Bushell, estate manager for the Fitztwilliam Estate which owns the premises, explains: "Prospective retailers regularly tell us they need larger shop units before they will locate in Malton."
The conversion of the former dry cleaners and electrical shop on Wheelgate is expected to take approximately nine months, and, while that's happening, the yard behind the shops will be closed to car parking.
Mr Bushell said: "Unfortunately, whilst the work is underway, contractors will need use of the yard at the rear of the premises.
"I am sorry if this will cause any inconvenience but it is necessary to help complete the building work as quickly as possible."
On a more positive note, the plans have indirectly uncovered interesting evidence of Malton's history.
Before building work could start, an archaeological survey had to be carried out at the site.
Twelfth-century rubbish pits, a well, a well-preserved limestone boundary wall and various items of pottery were uncovered in the excavations, carried out by commercial archaeological unit MAP Archaeological Consultancy.
The uncovered rubbish pits date from the 12th or 13th century and the limestone wall is thought to indicate that the plot was once owned by someone of influence or a powerful institution such as the church. Pottery found originated from Staxton, Brandsbury, Scarborough, Hambleton, Beverley and Humber areas.
Julie Smith, of Lightly and Lightly chartered surveyors, who undertook the survey, said: "The site and its artefacts have been fully recorded with some removed and the rest left in situ. A report detailing the finds has been lodged with the Estate, the Heritage Unit of North Yorkshire County Council and Ryedale District Council."
Updated: 10:49 Wednesday, August 06, 2003
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