In August 1983 a limited investigation took place prior to redevelopment. The work was restricted to the advance excavation of seven stanchion holes spaced at 6m intervals across the central area of the site. Evidence was noted of dark, post-Roman topsoil, and a medieval latrine, robber trenches and Roman floors overlying makeup and rubbish deposits. The earliest deposits were of mixed sand and daub and were probably associated with the legionary fortress. Parts of a massive suspended opus signinum floor were recorded (speculated to possibly linked to a bath house) also deposits that resembled rampart makeup of the legionary fortress annexe.<1> Thetford-type ware was also found.<2>