Archaeological dig begins at Milton site earmarked for new police station
Archaeologists have begun their study of land in Milton ahead of building works for a new police station.
They have started digging at the site this month after evidence revealed the land could previously have been occupied in the Roman, Iron and Bronze Ages.
Archaeological Research Services’ head of field archaeology Jim Brown said: “We know there’s a great deal of past activity here from previous investigations in neighbouring developments. Evidence has revealed occupation stretching back through the Roman, Iron and Bronze Ages, with some rare finds coming to light.
“It’s a landscape that’s inspired many archaeological investigations to date and we’re eager to start uncovering what lies beneath the soil over the coming weeks and months.”
The constabulary’s strategic estates director Jackie Golby added: “Ensuring this site is thoroughly examined is an important part of the development process, making the most of the opportunity to find out more about the history and heritage of this area before we embark on a new chapter for policing in the south of Cambridgeshire.”
Cambridgeshire Constabulary was granted permission for the new premises in March 2021 by South Cambridgeshire District Council.
The force says the new station will enhance the service for the south of Cambridgeshire by replacing the outdated facilities at Parkside in Cambridge with a modern police station.
The new building will be situated next to the Park & Ride facility in Milton. It will include:
- Enhanced facilities enabling the Constabulary to respond to, and investigate, complex crimes such as fraud and online investigations more effectively
- Increase in cell provision from 12 to 24 to help meet future demand
- The facilities and ability to better meet demand as population growth continues
- Better road access, subject to less traffic, enabling officers to respond to calls for service more efficiently
Options for a base in Cambridge city centre for the area’s policing team are still being explored. The force says further details will be provided in due course.
