Monument record MHG35859 - ACH A' CHORRAIN

Created automatically by NMRS Register Utility
User: Admin, Date: Wed 13 Oct 2004
----
NC36SE 31 3712 6196

NC 3712 6196 Two phases of archaeological monitoring were carried out due to the presence of significant archaeological remains located in the immediate vicinity. Close to the development two minor wall features were recorded during a watching brief in March 1999. No archaeological features or deposits were revealed by groundworks in either phase of work.
Sponsor: Medlock Communications for Cellnet Ltd.
R Cachart 1999

NC 3712 6196 SUAT Ltd (Scottish Urban Archaeological Trust Ltd) undertook an archaeological watching brief on March 31st 1999, on groundworks required for the construction of a telecommunications mast on Ach a'Chorrain, 7km to the SW of Durness on the E flank of the Dionard valley and on the E side of the A838. The brief was required due to the presence of significant archaeolgical remains located close to the mast including the ruins of a brock NC36SE 6, a round chambered cairn NC36SE 1, six hut circles to the NW NC36SE 11, five hut circles to the E NC36SE 10. Post meadieval sub-oval enclosures to the N NC36SE 18 have also been recorded, and a large cairn containing slabs which may have formed a cist or chamber. It was therefore thought possible that further remains may be discovered. The work was commissioned by Medlock Communications for their clients Cellnet Ltd. The watching brief followed specifications drawn up by the Highland Council Planning and Development Service Archaeology Unit. Archaeologically the results were negative as no features or deposits were revealed in the excavated area or access route. This does not exclude the possibility that further unknown remains exist in this area, therefore seeking archaeological advice is advised if further excavation is needed on the summit of Ach a' Chorrain.
During general fieldwalking two minor wall features were recorded which were close to but not within the development area. Wall A was located approximately 16m SW of the development area NC 3711 6195, forming a spur curving E from the living rock of the W edge of the summit for around 10m. Wall A comprised of a low spread of rounded boulders, limestone fragments and living rock about 1.5m wide. The function of the wall could not be definately ascertained though it may have formed part of an enclosure on the summit. Wall B was at the S end of a natural terrace against the rock face, immediately below the W end of the summit. It was of the same construction as wall A and may have served to block the south side of the terrace. A probably modern circular feature around 1m in diameter and 1m high was built into the S end of wall B.
Sponsor: Medlock Communications for Cellnet Ltd.
NMRS MS/991/143 (SUAT Ltd)