Radar surveys start to map town sewers

Investigations by Severn Trent Water to map the ground beneath Newark’s streets will begin on Monday.

As well as providing an accurate map of the underground sewerage system, the results will be shared with Newark and Sherwood District Council as part of the project to find hidden tunnels that may be under Newark.

Radar surveys will allow engineers to see a representation of hidden objects and structures beneath Castlegate and Bargate.

Work will be carried out overnight by Severn Trent Water’s partners, Trent and Peak Archaeology.

Mr Rene Mouraille, the castle and parks ranger at the district council, said: “The radar surveys also provide an excellent opportunity to clarify where the original Newark Castle curtain wall — which was built by Alexander the Magnificent — is situated.

“It is quite possible that the foundations of both the earlier west-facing curtain wall and perhaps several turrets may remain in reasonable condition, buried somewhere under the castle terrace.”

Mr Steve Milner, from Severn Trent, said: “Initial investigations have uncovered a much wider issue with sewer flooding in Newark than we originally anticipated.

“Feedback from the local community has been incredibly useful and is being used ­— along with the forthcoming radar surveys ­— to develop a solution to protect customers in the area.

“We want to make a lasting improvement for the benefit of Newark’s future and we expect to install new sewers on Kelham Road in autumn next year.”

Trent and Peak Archaeology will carry out surveys within Newark Castle, on Saturday, November 16, from 11am.

The event is open to the public and visitors can ask archaeologists questions ­— and even have a go themselves.