Urban housing development Cowgate, Edinburgh

Following an evaluation Headland were asked to undertake an archaeological excavation on the site of the former Cowgate Nursery School, Edinburgh prior to the construction of sheltered housing on the site.

The excavation revealed the remains of a clay bonded stone building believed to be one of the first buildings in this part of the Cowgate. Map evidence and pottery retrieved from the building suggest a 14th - 15th century date. To the east of the site what appears to be a defensive wall 1.8 m wide was uncovered. This is thought to be the King’s Wall commissioned in 1427.

The excavation was undertaken in extremely difficult conditions but the condition was cleared and development completed.

Commercial sector developments have a need to balance costs with benefit.