Excavation of the pond is still in the early stages, and appears remarkably devoid of datable finds, which is in itself an important discovery. Three other large pits were found nearby, perhaps quarries or ‘borrow pits’ focused upon a patch of natural gravel. Some ponds originated from extraction activities, where materials like clay, sand, or gravel were once gathered for construction or industrial purposes. Commonly, such pits filled with water, transforming into ponds or were deliberately repurposed to provide water storage.
The pond’s significance within the layout of enclosures is intriguing. While it may have been a quarry pit that eventually silted up, it could also have served as a water source for livestock or played a role in aiding water drainage from the surrounding land. A combination of these functions, reflecting the Romans’ resourcefulness in adapting features to suit their needs, appears likely.
Our ongoing excavations aim to shed light on the importance and the diverse roles the well and pond might have played when in use, and how they were adapted or differed in function over time. As we continue to investigate these features, we anticipate uncovering even more valuable insights into the region’s intriguing past.