A Devon (England) action group is fighting to preserve an historic site near Kingskerswell which is threatened by the construction of a new bypass. Test excavations at Aller Cross have uncovered evidence of Iron Age and Roman occupation and connections with other important sites such as Kents Cavern in Torquay, and Glastonbury. Pottery and other artifacts indicate the possibility of links with Europe.
     Details first emerged ten years ago during fieldwork carried out by Wessex Archaeology. A later report by Devon Archaeological Society concluded that the identification of pre-Roman activity on the site was significant and that the initial exploration had chanced upon an important archaeological site in the Devon countryside.
     Paul Bright, a local Councillor and Vice-Chairman of the Kingskerswell Alliance, said: "This latest evidence highlights that the environmental price tag we have to pay is just too high. We already have a lot of support in the village." Devon County Council has now promised a comprehensive environmental survey well before the bypass, scheduled for eight years hence, is built. The research will be conducted at locations that will be kept secret to deter treasure hunters.
     The Kingskerswell Alliance, set up to oppose the current plans, supports decongestion of the A380 but does not believe the £47m bypass is the answer. More information can be found at www.kingskerswellalliance.org.uk.

Source: This is Devon (10 May 2003)