Unearthing history: RWE invites communities to experience Vanguard’s archaeological treasures
Residents across Norfolk are invited to discover thousands of years of local history at two free public information events, hosted by RWE’s Vanguard projects at Gressenhall Farm & Workhouse this March.
The events take place on Friday 20 and Saturday 21 March in the marquee at Gressenhall, open from 10:00 to 16:00 each day. Visitors will be able to explore the findings from a wide-ranging programme of archaeological investigations carried out along the onshore cable route for the Vanguard West, East and Boreas offshore wind farm projects.
“We are very excited to be able to share these discoveries with the local community,” said Jon Darling, RWE project director for Vanguard West and East. “The archaeological campaign has revealed a remarkable story about how this landscape has changed over time, from prehistoric activity through to a Roman villa estate and beyond.”
He added: “Careful archaeological work sits alongside responsible infrastructure development, helping to protect and record Norfolk’s heritage while supporting the transition to renewable energy. Events like this allow us to connect the story of the past with the future being built here today.”
Stretching for around 60 kilometres across Norfolk, from landfall at Happisburgh to the onshore substation location at Necton, the investigations have revealed evidence of activity from early prehistory through to the Roman and medieval periods, helping to build a clearer picture of how the landscape has been used over time.
Project archaeologists from Headland Archaeology will be present throughout both days to discuss the work, with artefacts recovered during the investigations on display alongside information boards explaining how the staged programme of research, surveys and excavations has been carried out.
One of the most significant discoveries from the campaign – a Roman villa estate including a bathhouse – will also feature prominently at the event. The discovery provides new insight into life in the region nearly 2,000 years ago and forms a key part of the information being shared with local communities.
Families are warmly encouraged to attend. A dedicated activity area will include artefact handling opportunities and the chance to try RWE’s new augmented reality experience, Roman Villa: A Day in the Life. Designed using evidence gathered during the archaeological works, the app allows visitors to explore a digital reconstruction of the villa and learn more about daily life in Roman Norfolk.
Entry to the event is free. Visitors attending can also visit Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse at half-price admission on the day.
The archaeological programme reflects the care taken to understand Norfolk’s historic landscape before construction begins. At Gressenhall, visitors will be able to see the results up close and talk to the project team and the archaeologists who carried out the work.