Peterborough construction workers discover 11 human skeletons

Construction workers renovating the Queensgate roundabout in Peterborough, England, have discovered at least 11 human skeletons. The remains were found deep underground during excavation work.

Initial police investigations determined that the discovery was not linked to any criminal activity. Archaeologists have since been brought in, identifying the site as a former Victorian-era cemetery that once sat between the Peterborough railway station and the Queen Street Iron Works. The cemetery was closed to new burials in 1858, and while the area was cleared for construction in the 1970s, some graves appear to have been missed.

Peterborough City Council stated that current excavation work is reaching deeper levels than previous projects. Contractors have increased safety measures on-site, and archaeologists are currently surveying the area for further remains. The discovery is expected to delay the renovation project by approximately four weeks.