The duck pond

The Hellstone 3

Image by texlahoma

baza Feb 9, 2003 17:33:39

When I first visited the lovely Hellstone dolmen, in the autumn of 2001, I was surprised to see a duck pond adjacent to it, which appeared to have been recently dug. I emailed the Archaeology Dept. of Dorset County Council to express my concerns about it, but never received a reply.

I notice that IronMan and pure joy have recently added fieldnotes which also show some concern about this duck pond.

I don`t think that it should be there.

It probably encroaches within the scheduled area.

In my view, this duck pond has probably damaged the archaeology and something should be done about it.

Have a look at phil`s photo:

http://www.themodernantiquarian.com/image.php?image_id=7243

baz

The Werg Feb 9, 2003 18:47:38

Replying to baza

Hello Baza

Perhaps worth trying English Heritage? In my dealings with Cheshire County Council, and West Yorkshire Archaeology Services, about the state of monuments in their area, both said that EH was the body to contact. I know Megaraks tend to have no respect for official heritage bodies, but given my success with the Bridestones, it might be worth it.

English Heritage South West Region
29 Queen Square
Bristol
BS1 4ND
Tel: 0117 975 0700

Regards

The Werg

(haven't seen you in the chat for a while!)

Pete G Feb 10, 2003 01:27:03

Replying to baza

See?
Ducking F**** trying to rule the world!
PeteG

baza Feb 14, 2003 18:08:48

Replying to baza

Well, I emailed English Heritage about our concerns and have received a reply informing me that my query has been passed on to Duncan Coe, Inspector of Ancient Monuments for
Dorset and I`ll get a reply next week.

I`ll let you know what happens.

baz

moggymiaow Feb 17, 2003 00:20:51

Replying to baza

the duck pond may or may not encroach on the site, the fact that is is already there, would removing this undo the damage to the archaeology?

FourWinds Feb 17, 2003 12:44:40

Replying to baza

By the look of your latest photo the pond is an ever encroaching beastie!

I was of the opinion that now it's there it can only provide a wildlife habitat and that the damage is done, but seeing this photo has changed my mind.