Recent Projects

Fearn Heritage and Archaeology were involved in this Heritage Fund funded project from the outset, working with the Foundation for Common Land, advising on the best way to integrate the historic environment and developing project ideas for three commons in the Shropshire Hills. The wider project focused on;

• Encouraging more diverse communities to enjoy nature and connect with the commons closest to them.

• Helping everyone to understand the multiple benefits that come from commons and the importance of the commoning system.

• Sharing skills that will enable and empower commoners to increase carbon storage, protect historic sites, enhance wildlife and habitats, and maintain the ancient practice of commoning.

Historic Environment work led by Fearn Heritage in Shropshire included condition monitoring of arcaheological sites, erosion repair and scrub control, documetary research and community excavation at three commons Longmynd, Stiperstones and Clee Liberty,

The result has been enhanced heritage preserved in better condition, new and detailed understanding of the development of the common through time as well as a trained and engaged group of commoners able to monitor and look after the historic environment in the future.

Clee Liberty Common

Fearn Heritage and Archaeology led a 3 year historic environment strand working with commoners and parishioners to develop a detailed understanding of  Clee Liberty Common in the  Shropshire hills. Work included;

•  Detailed Historic Landscape Survey, Geophysical and Lidar survey of the common

• Development of a team of regular volunteers and supporters

•  Erosion Repairs to Nordy Bank Hillfort

• 3 x community excavations over three summers,  looking at the Iron Age, Medieval Boundaries and Industrial Landscape

• Series of guided walks and archival research

• Regular talks and workshops from invited specialists

 Very enjoyable experience working with others as part of a team, gaining  knowledge and achieving goals. Matt was brilliant’

 ‘Matt was such an asset to the project, he was always so enthusiastic and made the whole experience so enjoyable that we will get involved in other digs when we can as he made it so much fun’.