Researchers from the National Trust have identified over 120 new archaeological sites in Northumberland using LiDAR technology.
As we know, LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) allows archaeologists to observe underground without the need for traditional excavations. This technology can project thousands of light beams underground and measure surface changes.
The National Trust used LiDAR technology to survey the Wallington area in Northumberland. (Photo: NATIONAL TRUST).
Recently, in the United Kingdom, the National Trust utilized LiDAR and discovered over 120 archaeological sites on the Wallington Estate. This project, valued at £800,000, is funded by the UK Government’s Green Recovery Fund in Northumberland.
The archaeological sites date back from 2000 BC to 1900 AD. This discovery has helped the National Trust preserve the land, and they also plan to plant around 75,000 native British trees in the coming months in this area.
The survey was conducted in February this year over an area of approximately 55 km2. Notably, this is the largest survey that the organization has ever undertaken. The findings shed light on the rich agricultural history of the land, as well as the old farming methods from the 18th century of Sir Walter Blackett, an English baron and politician.
The National Trust plans to plant 75,000 trees across the estate in the coming months. (Photo: NATIONAL TRUST).
Additionally, the National Trust also surveyed Iron Age farms, believed to have existed before the Roman invasion of Britain in AD 43. Mark Newman, an archaeological consultant for the National Trust, stated: “This is an exciting discovery in the 4,000-year history of this special heritage site. The discoveries made possible by LiDAR have revealed much about the area’s history, helping us to develop plans for the future.”
He added: “All these discoveries will be further studied to ensure they are not affected by upcoming reforestation plans, as well as to preserve them for future initiatives.”
According to Mr. Newman, the National Trust is currently very confident in its tree planting plans. He remarked: “We are incredibly excited; we can now truly recreate historical areas that have previously disappeared. This carries significant meaning. This project also demonstrates that, alongside preserving historical sites, we can create new, larger, and better habitats for the benefit of future generations.”
The National Trust will conduct another field check in November before the tree planting begins. Paul Hewitt, Director of Wallington, stated: “In 2019, Wallington set a 50-year vision for restoring natural habitats across the estate. In the short term, by 2030, we aim to plant one million trees and restore one thousand hectares of land here.”
