An ancient settlement may lie beneath peat at the site of a new road in North Uist (Western Isles, Scotland), it has emerged, prompting a team of archaeologists to carry out excavation works.
     Searching for clues of a prehistoric past, the group from the Archaeological Research and Consultancy department at the University of Sheffield (ARCUS) have been investigating an area at the Druim Reallasger to Clachan stretch of the new Lochmaddy to Lochboisdale road, close to the prehistoric burial cairn of Barpa Langais.
     Describing more about the study, Director of ARCUS, James Symonds commented that the team were hoping to discover more about island life thousands of years ago. He said: "The dig is in the early stages, but initial findings of flint and quartz tolls, suggest that the remains of a prehistoric encampment may exist buried beneath the peat."
     The archaeological work is due to be completed shortly but until a full scale investigation has been carried out, the team are unable to suggest how significant the site and artefacts may be. Initiated by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar's archaeologist, Dr Mary Macleod, the investigation is being funded by the Comhairle's Technical Services department. It is currently unclear whether the excavations will cause a delay on the road job, which is anticipated to be completed by the end of the year.
     
Source: Stornoway Today (22 February 2006)