“The project proposed by Ms Burke will investigate the archaeology of Willow Court, using material research, historical research and looking at the sociological perspective of the site . There will be a public archaeology program that will use the material evidence to explore the community’s relationship with the site. This project (proposal attached for Councillors information) will provide valuable archaeological and social historical information on Willow Court, including interpretive and educational information. It is anticipated that the project, which runs over 3 years, will look at the staff/patient experience within Willow Court over 170 years, charting the shifts in treatment and understanding of mental illness. It will also provide valuable information on the archaeology of the site, much of which is unknown. There has been a great deal of focus on the heritage architecture of the site, however relatively little is known about its archaeology. It is anticipated that this study will provide a new perspective on life in Willow Court/ Royal Derwent for both patients and staff.”

Read the full proposed agenda item to go before the Derwent Valley Council this month HERE

Left: Associate Professor Heather Burke and Associate exploring Burnett Street entry to tunnel.