A watching brief was carried out by Colchester Archaeological Trust in August of 2012 during the excavation of an engineering trench through modern car-park hardstanding (L1) and its associated sub-base (approx 400mm thick). At the east end of the trench, L1 sealed modern concrete, and geo-textile at the west end. L1 sealed a horizon of made-ground (L2) - substantial deposits of builder’s debris (brick, slate and plastic, none of which was retained). L2 was probably associated with the construction of the retail park in the late 1990s. Excavation was halted at this depth. The made-ground under the modern surface was not penetrated. No archaeological features were identified, and there were no finds. <1>