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September 14, 1999
(Tourism, Culture and Recreation)


Province comments on results of archaeological assessment at Quidi Vidi

Charles Furey, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, commented today on the results of an archaeological assessment which the province ordered for land at the Quidi Vidi Battery site. An Historic Resources Overview Assessment was ordered for the land, prior to a proposed three lot residential development on the west side of Quidi Vidi Harbour.

"Archaeological assessment at the proposed development site did not locate significant historic resources. Artifacts and articles recovered include a wide variety of 20th century bottles, pottery sherds, and other domestic and commercial items," said Mr. Furey. "An independent group of professionals performed the assessment, and the department is confident that in regard to archaeological resources, any construction in the area will not damage or negatively impact the site."

The investigation did confirm that the study area's original surface has been completely obscured by more than a century of use as a household dump and 60 years as a commercial fill disposal area. There were also enormous amounts of debris found, which had been left by the United States during World War II such as drinking containers, ceramic material, kitchen crockery and automobile parts.

No undisturbed ground was encountered for depths of up to three metres at the proposed housing development site. Therefore, there is little chance that construction will impact negatively on archaeological resources.

"The department has done its job in this situation. We felt that it was important to complete an archaeological assessment of this area, and we are satisfied that no further action is required from the Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation," said Furey.

Media contact: Tara Laing, Communications, (709) 729-0857.

1999 09 14 4:35 p.m.


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