AN archaeological dig will take place at a former Weymouth bowling alley this month as part of the council’s plans for its redevelopment.

Specialists Context One Heritage & Archaeology have been commissioned to carry out an archaeological investigation into the former MFA Bowl site on St Nicholas Street ahead of any redevelopment - this comes after Dorset Council acquired the leasehold interest for the site in January.

The same company was used last year to carry out similar investigations at North Quay.

Context One has studied historical maps of the area and where the services now run and has recommended two x 10m long trenches to be dug in the areas most likely to reveal archaeological remains. 

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Richard McConnell from Context One, said: “We have carried out a desk-based assessment of the site and we know it is within the historic medieval core of Melcombe Regis which has seen various episodes of redevelopment over many years.

“We are expecting to encounter foundation remains of buildings similar to North Quay unless they have been completely removed as part of the MFA Bowl development.

“If we do find any remains, they are likely to be a mixture of remains from various dates, perhaps extending back to the medieval period.

“When we carried out the North Quay investigations, we worked with community groups such as Dig the Street. We are hoping to involve the community again in these works, look out for details on our social media channels.”

Members of the public will be able to keep track of the investigations through the social media pages of Context One and Dorset Council, who will share what is found.

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Cllr Tony Ferrari, Dorset Council’s Portfolio Holder for Property and Assets, said: “Much like the archaeological work at North Quay, this exploration presents a unique opportunity to dig deep into the history of Weymouth and we’re looking forward to seeing what might be unearthed.

“We know Weymouth’s history is important to local people and can be found right across the Melcombe Regis area, so we’re pleased that the council’s acquisition of this site may offer us a window into Weymouth’s past.”

The work will start on Monday April 25 and will take between 2-3 weeks to complete. During this time the car park operated by Euro Car Parks, will be closed and permit holders of this car park are being contacted directly to discuss alternative parking arrangements.