Evaluation by R Poulton of SCAU for W H Smith Ltd as part of redevelopment of the shop site. The work took the form of observation of clearance and groundworks, with recording of the archaeology uncovered. SCAU were assisted by the GMVEU. Much of the site had been disturbed by modern development and the High Street frontage was found to have essentially been removed by modern basementing. Elsewhere no occupation levels earlier than the post-medieval period survived; the only pre-19th century wall foundations recorded probably relate to the House of Correction, built soon after 1767. A variety of deep medieval features dating from the 11th/12th centuries survived: chalk-lined cesspits, chalk-lined wells and other pits used for rubbish disposal; such features are typical of the backlands of medieval towns. Of particular interest were a number of crucibles, indicative of metal working in the Saxo-Norman period, as well as pottery of that date, and a large quantity of pottery of 15th/16th century date. (292)