Memorial plans for Queensgate Roundabout skeletons
There are plans for a new memorial to be placed on Queensgate Roundabout following the discovery of 37 skeletons during works.
A major roadworks scheme is underway at the roundabout in the city centre as part of the Station Quarter project.
The foot and cycle route from the railway station to the city centre is being completely revamped, with the aim to make it a more pleasant journey for residents, workers and visitors.
The project, known as City Link, will see two of the underpasses filled in with concrete, creating a slope towards Cowgate.
However, the work has been delayed after the discovery of a number of human remains at the roundabout.
A total of 37 skeletons have been found by workers so far – all dating back to when the site was used as a graveyard.
Recent discoveries have also included tombs and burial chambers.
Currently, there is a blue plaque on the junction of the roundabout at Cowgate marking the location where the graveyard used to lie – but the city council have now said they are looking at a further memorial in the roundabout itself.
A spokesperson said: “We are exploring options for a memorial at the City Link site or close by."
Despite the fact tombs and burial chambers have been uncovered, archaeologists have not been able to identify any of the remains – which date back more than a century.
The council spokesperson said: “Archaeologists will record any names discovered on the tombs/burial chambers, but to date none have been found.”
Once the excavations have been concluded, a Church of England burial service will be carried out elsewhere in the city.
Councillor Angus Ellis, cabinet member for transport at Peterborough City Council, said: "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. Due to this, we anticipate that the programme could now be delayed by up to eight weeks potentially. 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.”"