Monument record TR 04 SW 586 - Area of mixed low-intensity use, probably agricultural in origin, junction M10a

The evaluation at M20 Junction 10a, Ashford, Kent revealed scattered archaeological features across the site, including 36 ditches, two palaeochannels, one pond, and seven possible cremation burials. Most artefacts were medieval pottery and residual prehistoric flint, with some post-medieval field boundaries matching historic maps. Early prehistoric activity is suggested by flint finds, while medieval and post-medieval features indicate agricultural land management. Cremation burials in Area 4 are of particular interest. Overall, the site shows evidence of changing agricultural regimes from prehistory to the modern period, but dating and interpretation are limited by scarce artefacts.

Seven possible cremation burials or cremation-related deposits were discovered in Area 4 (Trenches 56, 57, and 59) at M20 Junction 10a, Ashford. These features were small, sub-circular or ovoid pits containing firm, dark sandy silt with frequent charcoal and burnt bone fragments, left in situ. The cremations were aligned in a straight line in Trench 57, spaced about 0.3m apart. No artefacts were recovered to provide secure dating, but associated finds suggest a possible late Iron Age to early Roman date. (1)

<1> Oxford Archaeology South, 2017, M20 Junction 10a Ashford, Kent, Archaeological evaluation report (Unpublished document). SKE52348.