A total of 37 skeletons have been recovered from beneath the Queensgate roundabout in Peterborough, where substantial regeneration works are currently underway. The human remains were initially found in late July during works on the City Link scheme, with the tally of skeletons progressively increasing to 37.
Archaeological specialists operating at the location have additionally uncovered burial vaults and interment chambers. Peterborough City Council has confirmed that all skeletal remains found to date are of Victorian origin.
Discovery details and background
Councillor Angus Ellis, cabinet member for transport at Peterborough City Council, stated: "Work is currently continuing at the site, with staff from M Group working alongside Oxford Archaeology following the discovery of human skeletal remains. Archaeologists have now discovered 37 skeletons along with tombs and burial chambers."
After the original find in July, the council had indicated an archaeologist considered the remains originated from a burial ground which operated throughout the medieval era. Nevertheless, the authority later verified that the remains retrieved thus far belonged to the Victorian period.
Possible project delays
A council representative explained: "The depth we have dug to is deeper than what was excavated in the 1970s, '80s." They further noted that due to the roundabout's proximity to Peterborough Cathedral, "there was always the possibility... that these discoveries could have been earlier". The Queensgate roundabout itself was constructed during the 1970s on land that had formerly housed a Victorian cemetery, which ceased accepting burials in 1858.
The findings may also affect the schedule for the substantial regeneration scheme. An initial four-week postponement was anticipated while the remains were extracted, though the council has subsequently indicated the project might face delays of up to eight weeks.
Impact on Station Quarter scheme
Cllr Ellis said: "This is due to the nature of the work that the archaeologists are undertaking, which is intricate and time-consuming. We are looking at options to reduce this possible delay in later phases of the project and will announce updates in due course."
The City Link walkway seeks to transform the vicinity and establish a route linking Peterborough railway station with the city centre. It represents part of the £65million Station Quarter regeneration, which commenced earlier this year. The roadworks are presently scheduled for completion during summer 2027.
