Workers uncover historic bones in Chichester road dig
- Workers discovered several bones, including a human pelvis, during roadworks in St John’s Street, Chichester.
- Sussex Police cordoned off the area and are conducting tests to confirm the nature of the bones.
- The discovery is being treated as unexplained, with ongoing enquiries to understand its historical significance.
During roadworks in St John’s Street, Chichester, workers uncovered several bones believed to be human, prompting a police investigation. The discovery occurred around 1.40pm on a Tuesday, leading Sussex Police to cordon off the area for further examination. Among the retrieved bones was what appeared to be a human pelvis, raising questions about the historical significance of the find. Authorities are currently treating the situation as unexplained, with tests underway to determine the nature of the remains. Chichester has a rich history, having been a Roman and Anglo-Saxon settlement, as well as a significant market town during the Norman and medieval periods. This context adds to the intrigue surrounding the recent discovery, as the area is known for its archaeological significance. In 1994, a nearby quarry in Boxgrove yielded some of the oldest human remains found in Britain, excavated by Dr. Mark Roberts, a palaeolithic specialist. The ongoing investigation aims to uncover the origins of the bones and their historical context. Given the area's archaeological background, the discovery could provide valuable insights into the past inhabitants of Chichester. The police are conducting thorough enquiries to ascertain whether the remains are linked to any historical events or burial practices in the region. As the investigation unfolds, the community remains curious about the implications of this find. The results of the tests will likely determine the next steps, including whether further archaeological work is warranted in the area to explore the historical significance of the remains.