Archaeological dig in Mildenhall reveals Iron Age past

An archaeological dig on the site of what will become the new Mildenhall Hub drew to a close with an opportunity for residents to see what has been unearthed.

Suffolk Archaeology has been carrying out work on the site ahead of construction and on Tuesday tours were being organised as well as the chance to discuss some of the finds.

“While the hub is very much about the future of Mildenhall and meeting the future needs of the residents that live in and around the town, this has been a fascinating dig with golden glimpses into Mildenhall’s past,” said Dr Rhodri Gardner, managing director of Suffolk Archaeology.

Students from Mildenhall College Academy helped to start the dig at the end of June.

The £40 million hub project in Sheldrick Way will deliver a new school, leisure facilities including a bigger and better swimming pool and gym, as well as a health centre, public library, pre-school and adult learning space. It will also include the Citizens’ Advice Bureau, JobCentre, facilities for the police and room for 150 desks for Suffolk County Council and the new West Suffolk Council (which will replace Forest Heath District Council next May).

Around £22million is being invested by the district council – that money includes the cost of the new leisure facilities.

Cllr James Waters, leader of the council, said: “We are the pioneers and I believe that the Mildenhall Hub will become the model for how many other towns and cities provide schools, leisure and public services in the future.”