UPDATE: A Roman fort and civilian settlement at Low Borrowbridge farm in Cumbria faces an urgent threat from severe riverbank erosion, raising alarms for local historians and conservationists. As of today, the River Lune is dangerously undermining the archaeological site, which dates back to the first and second century AD.
Photographs taken under freezing temperatures reveal the alarming state of the bank, which is eroding rapidly due to altered waterflows from protective measures installed in 2019. The Highways Agency’s intervention to shield the Salterwath bridge has inadvertently worsened conditions, jeopardizing the remains of a site covering at least 12 hectares (30 acres).
Local farmer and photographer Andrea Meanwell has been documenting the changes in hopes of securing funding to stabilize the riverbank. She notes that recent storms have swept away significant portions of the land, including trees and earth. “The cemetery is under threat, and if we don’t act now, we could lose invaluable history,” she stated.
Historic England has expressed interest in aiding the preservation efforts, but immediate action is needed. The site includes extensive remains of the fort, including a potential parade ground and a guesthouse known as a mansio, discovered during excavations in 2011-12. Archaeologists have long debated the fort’s name, theorizing it to be “Alone,” linked to the River Lune’s name.
As thousands of commuters pass through the valley daily, the stark contrast between the bustling transport corridors and the fort’s isolation is striking. Meanwell highlights the irony of this solitude, emphasizing the urgent need for public awareness and support for conservation efforts.
With the future of the Roman fort hanging in the balance, the call for action is clear. Stakeholders urge anyone interested in preserving this vital piece of history to contribute to the funding efforts. Time is of the essence, as the erosion continues unabated.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story and how the community can assist in protecting this historical treasure.
