About

There were a number of sites of archaeological and historic importance along the route of the new road.

The purpose of the M74 Dig was to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the construction of the road: to unearth some of the history of Glasgow and its surrounding areas, and to make sure that no archaeological remains are damaged or cleared without a proper record having been made.

The unearthing and recording of the sites was performed by HAPCA, a Joint Venture between Headland Archaeology and Pre-Construct Archaeology. This took place between Summer 2007 and Spring 2008.

The new road passes through part of what was once Glasgow and South Lanarkshire’s industrial heartland. Sites explored include examples of 19th century domestic and industrial buildings, and evidence for early transportation and infrastructure. These sites typify early industrial Glasgow, and have great potential to aid our understanding of the recent historic past of the city.

The M74 Dig presented the opportunity to investigate these sites as a group. This enables us to gain a more comprehensive view of the history of Glasgow in the 19th century, where industry shaped domestic life and led to the development of the city we know today.

HAPCA excavated three large sites, and a number of smaller sites around the Tradeston and Port Eglinton area. Discover M74 Archaeological Sites for dig information, map locations, dig diaries, and image galleries.

If you would like further information about the M74 Dig, please e-mail m74dig@glasgow.gov.uk.