Mum of four digs her way to new career at Cross Tay

A mum of four from Perth is using the Cross Tay Link Road project to help launch a new career as an archaeologist.

Geri Veitch is just moving into her fourth year studying a BA (Hons) in Archaeology and Criminology at the University of the Highlands and Islands.

She has been doing work experience at the excavation taking place of an Iron Age Hill Fort on the A9 ahead of construction of the new Link Road

Due to Covid restriction this is the first time Geri has been involved in a proper site excavation

‘Covid 19 meant all our dig experience was done online which is just not the same, so it was great to actually get out and get your hands dirty on a real live job,’ said Geri.

‘I’ve been involved in all aspects of the job from digging out ditches to see what can be uncovered, to sampling the ground to see what it may once have held.’

The Cross Tay project involves the construction of a new 3-span bridge over the River Tay and six kilometres of new road linking the A9 with the A93 and the A94 north of Scone. It also includes the realignment of two kilometres of dual carriageway on the A9 just north of Inveralmond Roundabout.

The new road will significantly reduce traffic congestion and related pollution in Perth city centre. It is the largest infrastructure project Perth and Kinross Council have ever undertaken.

Perth & Kinross Councill’s Roads Infrastructure Manager, Jillian Ferguson said:

‘Giving local archaeology students an opportunity to explore their local area’s past was a big part of what we were trying to achieve on this dig. Ten local students were given the opportunity of work on site and I’m delighted they seem to be gaining so much from the experience.’

The site on the A9 just north of Perth is one of the most extensive hill fort excavations ever carried out in Scotland.

‘The highlight for me was digging out the Souterrain or underground storage space uncovering it piece by piece to see it all in its entirety has been fascinating,’ added Geri.

‘Uncovering Broxy Hillfort has really inspired me to look at archaeology field work as a career.’