Building record 0420802034 - CORINTHIAN ARCH, Stowe Avenue, Stowe Landscape Gardens

Grade I. Monumental arch 1765 by Thomas Pitt, Lord Camelford. On the S. vista and terminating the Avenue to Buckingham. Ashlar stone, giant corinthian pilasters flanking the central arched opening, balustraded parapet. Low quadrant walls, linked to flanking columns on podia carrying urns. The arch contains two dwelling houses (B14).
Evaluation trial trenching carried out in July 2004 by Northants Archaeology established the full extent of the road to north and south of the arch (Queen's Drive) and found evidence of the former ground surface (B30).
Further trial trenching carried out in November 2005 by Northants Archaeology established the nature of the original ground surface and the construction of the Queen's Drive in the immediate vicinity of the arch. Investigation of the footings of the arch by Gary Marshall of the National Trust resulted in evidence for the original railings and gate mountings (B32).
Dendro-dating obtains a felling date of 1766 for timbers from the arch. Other similar dates also obtained (B34).
Included in English Heritage's Buildings at Risk Registers. In 1999-2001 described as priority A: 'Immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss of fabric; no solution agreed'. In 2002described as priority D: 'Slow decay; solution agreed but not yet implemented' (B37-39).
Watching brief carried out by Northamptonshire Archaeology in July and August 2006 during ground reduction associated with restoration works, recorded the footings of the existing SW miliary column, remains of a probable 18th or 19th century limestone gravel working-surface beneath the arch, a modern brick-lined well and 2 wooden fence posts. See report for detail (B40).