AN ANCIENT burial ground has not been found on a worksite, developers have said, despite speculation to the contrary. 

Some residents in Christchurch have suggested that an Anglo Saxon burial ground has been found at the former police station site off Fountain Roundabout and Barrack Road. 

Housing company Aster Group has started work in November on the site to build 169 new homes with demolition now complete. 

Work seems to have come to a halt – starting the rumour among some residents that the burial ground was discovered. 

The building being taken down in the winterThe building being taken down in the winter (Image: NQ)

This has been denied by Aster Group, who said work has stopped as the land must be tested and cleared up before house building can begin. 

The scheme is expected to see the first homes delivered by winter 2025.

A spokeswoman for Aster told the Echo: "We're pleased to confirm we've completed demolishing the existing buildings on the site including the former police station, magistrates court and pub.  

“The other surrounding land, which will also be included in the redevelopment, has also been prepared.  

"As a former brownfield site, the land must be tested and appropriately cleaned up before we can start building.  

“Our strategy to complete this has been submitted to the local authority for approval. In the meantime, we're working with our partners on site so we are prepared for the next phase of works so we can progress with building as quickly as possible. 

“We’re still very much looking forward to seeing the site – which includes much-needed new affordable homes that the area desperately requires – come to life.” 

(Image: NQ)

Its housing scheme was granted planning permission in February 2020, however, was halted due to ongoing legal issues. 

The scheme includes 23 homes for affordable rent and 30 to buy through affordable ownership schemes. 

In addition, the neighbourhood will also contain 77 homes and 39 retirement properties to buy on the open market. 

Meanwhile the flats will consist of one and two bedrooms, and houses will range from two to five bedrooms. 

Christchurch’s former police station closed to the public in March 2015 as part of cost cutting measures.