.....News added on 16th January 2011 .....

New tunnel found, but concern at Stable Yard site

A previously unknown Williamson tunnel has been unearthed during archaeological work at the old Stable Yard site on Smithdown Lane. However, many tunnels enthusiasts are concerned that the finds, adjacent to the Williamson Tunnels Heritage Centre, will soon disappear under projected new flats.

The formal archaeological dig has been carried out by Oxford Archaeology North who previously worked on the Williamson graveyard site. It is a prerequisite of a developer's planning application to build a row of buildings on the area, fronting onto Smithdown Lane.

Archaeologists measure new Williamson Tunnel at Stable Yard in January 2011.

Photo: Norma White
© FoWT, 2010

The Stable Yard site has long been the subject of development plans but the current works, which saw piling driven into the surface during December, suggest that construction work is a closer possibility today than it has been in the past.

The Local Authority has mandated that detailed investigation be carried out and assessed and it is that investigation which revealed the 'new' tunnel mid-way through January. Also uncovered were foundations and cellar structures of the old Stable Yard buildings which were unfortunately demolished in 2001.

As can be seen in the photo above, the tunnel is only a short distance below the normal land surface and is constructed in a pattern of brick courses interspersed with sandstone blocks. It points directly at the famous 'Triple Decker' tunnel which runs across the Stable Yard.

Underground structures revealed at Smithdown Lane

Although the tunnel has been damaged at some point in the past, any Williamson tunnel is a valuable feature and must be preserved. FoWT is in discussions with the parties concerned to press for the preservation of the tunnel and those other features which must be assumed to be underneath the site.

As at mid-January it is possible to see the dig and finds through fencing around the site and Williamson Tunnels enthusiasts may wish to take the opportunity to take a look while it is possible to do so.

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