Arkelsedijk 46 (2013)

Arkelsedijk 46

On behalf of Purac Biochem BV, RAAP Archaeological Consultancy in August 2013 an archaeological desk study (BO) and an Inventory Field Study (IVO) were carried out in the Purac Biochem Plan Area, Arkelsedijk 46 in Gorinchem. The reason for this study was the intention to demolish the existing buildings at this location and to build new buildings.

Based on the desk research, prior to the field research, there was a high expectation for the presence of archaeological remains from the Iron Age to the Middle Ages. This expectation is based on the presence of archaeological sites in the immediate vicinity and the presence of the Linge stream belt in the subsurface of the plan area.

Disturbances

The field research has shown that the soil of the plan area has been disturbed and/or brought up to approximately 1,2 to 4,2 m -Mv. The eastern part of the plan area, the sloping embankment, was part of the harbour and quays for the sugar factory from the early 20^e century.

Postcard of the Arkelsedijk sugar factory, ca. 1920

Below are the expected stream belt deposits of the Linge stream belt, which mainly consist of gully and bed deposits. No archaeologically promising geo-(morpho)logical levels or indications for (larger) archaeological sites were found. River dunes are also not expected in the plan area.

Based on the results of the field research, it was concluded that the previously established archaeological expectation for the discovery of archaeological remains for all periods had to be adjusted downwards (low). In light of the intended soil interventions and the small size of the plan area, it could be concluded that no archaeological remains would be disturbed when realising the plans.

No further archaeological research was recommended in the context of the proposed soil interventions.