Archaeologists have been working in the large tents at the Trinity Burial Ground since the autumn.

Archaeologists start search for Hull’s old city walls

An archaeological dig to search for the remains of Hull’s old city walls will take place next month.

Highways England is organising the dig in Princes Dock Street, where the walls are thought to be buried.

The historic walls could date back to the 14th century.

The dig will see a three-metre by eight-metre trench be dug in the street, with site fences being installed on Monday 25 February.

From Monday 4 March, archaeologists will spend four weeks working behind the scenes.

Highways England project manager Tom Peckitt said: “As part of our continued investment in improving our roads around Hull, building has now started on the new, fully accessible bridge that will take pedestrians and cyclists safely between the Princes Quay and the Marina over the A63.

Princes Dock Street, where Hull’s old city walls are thought to be buried.

“This will see better connectivity in the city and improve congestion on the A63, with plans in place to remove the traffic signals on this stretch of road.

“The archaeological dig, which is being carried out in consultation with Hull City Council and Historic England, is an exciting aspect of this project. While it’s naturally hard to predict the outcome until the digging begins, everyone hopes something of historical significance to the city will be discovered.”

The bridge, which has received a funding contribution of £4 million from the Humber Local Enterprise Partnership, is the first phase of the A63 Castle Street improvements scheme and will create better pedestrian links in the city centre.

The archaeological part of the scheme does not impact on the 61,000 drivers that use this stretch each day because the work will take place within the fence boundary. For pedestrians, the footpath will be closed and Highways England is working with Hull City Council to ensure a safe diversion will be in place.

Most of the work will be done during the day. It will be conducted with hand-held tools, meaning noise will be kept to a minimum and take place in business hours.

Tackling traffic congestion is a top priority for Hull City Council.