Family Archaeology Event

Wednesday 11 September 2024

It was fantastic to welcome around 100 visitors to our Family Archaeology Event at the Friarsgate Park today (Thursday 29 August). Pre-Construct Archaeology offered a hands on learning experience as young people discovered, washed and analysed fragments of ancient pottery. Local businesses Bella Crafts and Design Junction ran stations to engage creative sparks with activities including pottery painting and tile design, inspired by some of the artefacts that have been found on site. The event marked the end of a six week long community dig which has been running over the summer months, with over 120 community volunteers participating in uncovering Winchester’s hidden history.

The event took place on Friarsgate Park, a new vibrant temporary outdoor space created on the site of the former Friarsgate Medical Centre. The new space includes seating areas, a platform for arts and cultural activities, soft landscaping with wildflowers, and improved views of the River Itchen. Alongside the improvement works at Kings Walk, Friarsgate Park is one of several temporary initiatives being introduced as part of the first phase of Central Winchester’s Regeneration, as designs for the entire site are developed. It serves as a new outside community space as well as enhancing connectivity and biodiversity. Central Winchester Regeneration aims to better connect key parts of the city, including Kings Walk, Friarsgate, and the bus station, to the wider city and district. The development will provide homes for people at all life stages, support local talent, and attract new innovators and entrepreneurs. In recent months, Jigsaw has actively engaged with residents across the district to discuss the evolving proposals, ensuring that the development meets the community’s needs and aspirations.

Back to News