The Big Dig Project Timeline
2022
We will start to trace the origins of Eastbourne as a Downland town and see how the environment has shaped its development and understand what life was like for the people who initially relied on the grasslands for their existence and later for their wealth.
2023
BIG DIG FESTIVAL - Working with local volunteers digging small test pits in back gardens, allotments, school grounds and public spaces in carefully selected areas to explore the daily lives of Eastbourne’s past residents.
'Flying Archaeologists' will be on hand to supervise and ensure all excavations and recording are done correctly while another team of finds specialists will be in our 'incident room' to record and interpret the archaeology.
Events, talks and workshops will run throughout the Big Dig Festival.
2024
Events, workshops and performances in Original Pronunciation, via historic song, folklore and storytelling as well as learning how to wear and work in historic costume to understand more about the people who lived here.
The Big Dig round 2 other Downland communities will have opportunities to carry out their own Big Dig projects with training resources, equipment and professional assistance provided.