05 Nov 2025
Could nationally important Roman remains be buried beneath a wildlife meadow mooted for housing development?
Preliminary archaeological digs at Bedmond Lane wildlife meadow show the need for more excavations in case what lurks beneath the surface may be of equal value to registered scheduled monument standard.
This means they could be of national importance and legally protected.
The issue was raised during the hearings for St Albans Local Plan in a report submitted by Historic England, who said it was not a site justified for inclusion in the planning blueprint.
The Planning Inspectors overseeing the hearings said that they are going to have a very good look at this site and intend to visit and inspect it, despite SADC spatial planning manager Chris Briggs suggesting the existing evidence did not preclude development.
Inspector Tom Bristow added: “If site allocation is justified and sound, an extra requirement may be needed on the way… the design and layout needs to be informed by evidence.”
Campaigner Dr Robert Wareing said in response to the comments: “I am astounded at the way St Albans district council are ploughing on with this and disregarding all the valid and justified objections. It does make you wonder if they really listen to the chorus of objections from expert ecologists, expert archaeologists, and residents.
“But of course, one reason the last Local Plan failed was because St Albans district council failed to listen!
“As well as the objections from Historic England, the biodiversity of this site means that it is unique in St Albans and there are so many protected species of plants, animals and insects on this wonderful wildlife site. Surely there must be a less valuable site on which 70 homes can be built?”
The hearings continue…
