EHG6299 - Trial trenching - proposed new Edinbane Substation, Balmeanach

A trial trenching evaluation was undertaken by AOC Archaeology Group in 2024 in respect to the proposed development of a new substation at Edinbane Substation, near Balmeanach, Isle of Skye. The proposed development site was located approximately 3.2km northeast of Balmeanach and 6.9km south of Edinbane village. The main phase of evaluation works took place from the 15th – 26th of July 2024 and followed a phase of test pit monitoring (see EHG6298). Most of the known historic structures across the site were not investigated as part of the evaluation due to the physical limitations of machine trenching in relation to the upstanding remains. The evaluation confirmed several of the historic structures were constructed from well-built stone and turf walling. In addition, the structures to the south of the track may have had surviving occupation deposits on the interiors, but none were confirmed during the evaluation. Most of the field banks evaluated were denuded and almost indistinguishable from the topsoil. One exception was a large bank at the western end of the site, which had undisturbed deposits towards the base, and similarities to others at the nearby Dunbeag Broch. At several locations around the site, undisturbed peat deposits were confirmed to be in excess of two metres, with well-preserved timber at several depths, which had significant archaeological potential for understanding the palaeo-environment of Skye. Therefore, in lieu of a watching brief during construction, archaeological mitigation was recommended in the form of targeted peat coring and hand excavation of the upstanding historic structures. <1>