04/06/2026
Heritage & Archaeology Update
We have recently been made aware of social media posts and comments regarding timber remains and other historic features uncovered during the building works at Brunswick Wharf.
We would like to provide some further information.
The timber remains recently uncovered on site are a mixture of former railway sleepers associated with the railway infrastructure that once served the wharf and old mooring posts.
Brunswick Wharf has been the subject of extensive archaeological assessment and investigation over a number of years. This work has included:
- Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment (2020)
- Written Scheme of Investigation (AC Archaeology, 2021)
- Final On Site Archaeological Investigation Report (AC Archaeology, 2022)
- Consultation with Devon County Council's Historic Environment Team (Archaeological team) as part of the planning process
These documents are publicly available on the Torridge District Council planning portal for anyone wishing to review the findings in full. The relevant documents can be found under planning applications 1/1126/2020/FULM and 1/0295/2024/FULM.
The archaeological investigations confirmed Brunswick Wharf's long history as a working waterfront, including shipbuilding, wharf activity, land reclamation and associated industrial uses dating back several centuries. Devon County Council's Historic Environment Team has confirmed that all required archaeological fieldwork and historic building recording has been completed in accordance with the approved Written Scheme of Investigation. They have also confirmed that no further archaeological work is required and that the archaeological planning condition for the development has been fully discharged.
The timber remains recently exposed are consistent with the site's historic use as a working waterfront and the types of features identified and assessed through the archaeological investigation process. Any items uncovered during the current building works are assessed before removal. Where items are considered to have heritage value, they are recorded and retained where appropriate.
We recognise how important Bideford's heritage is to the local community and remain committed to respecting, recording and celebrating the rich history of Brunswick Wharf as the development progresses.
