New signage details historic archaeological site in Monkton

The Fairfields site – which will provide nearly 300 new homes – includes two listed structures and a scheduled monument.

New signage detailing the significance of each of these features is being installed as part of the construction process.

The first sign is now in place and details Whiteside Enclosure, thought to be a settlement enclosure from the late Iron Age (between 400BC and 200AD). 

As a nationally important archaeological site, it is protected as a scheduled monument. 

The sign provides local residents and visitors with information on the enclosure, which was first identified as a crop mark from an aerial photograph back in 1978.

From these images, it was characterised as a sub-rectangular enclosure, measuring about 90m by 75m.

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There is a tradition of square or rectangular settlement enclosures in Southern Scotland in the late Iron Age and it is hoped that there may be an opportunity in the future to investigate the site to gain a fuller picture of its origin and use.

Two more signs will be installed at the development, highlighting the significance of two listed building which are also located on the site.

Together, the three signs will help to give local residents a glimpse into the area’s past and preserve the site’s historic significance.

Chris Logan, Persimmon West Scotland Managing Director, said: “We’re proud to be one of Ayrshire’s biggest home builders and it’s really important for us to leave a positive legacy in the communities we operate in.

"That’s why it’s great to see the first of our new interpretative signs up, which will give residents and visitors a flavour of the historic significance of the local area.

“Our Fairfields development will be an important part of Monkton’s future and I’m delighted we can combine that with an informative recognition of the area’s past.”