Prior to demolition and redevelopment work starting, an attempt was made to dig trial holes to assess the existence and depth of archaeological deposits on the site. Trenching was undertaken in December 1986 using a JCB but was thwarted by underground petrol tanks, pipes and thick concrete floors. During 'neutralisation' work on the tanks in January 1987 a short section was revealed where a possible fragment of 'op sig.' floor was observed, sealed by dark earth at a depth of c.1.3 metres. Later watching brief work on the site during ground work in 1987 revealed evidence for post-medieval, medieval and Roman buildings (see ECC1574).<1>