UNDERGROUIND burial vaults containing human remains have been uncovered by contractors breaking up a building garage on a development site.
The chambers below Villiers Street, in Sunniside, Sunderland were discovered under a former Sunday school building being being demolished as part of the area's regeneration.
Archaeologists have been called in to document the find before the remains are removed for further study and reburial. Records show more than 400 people could be buried at the site.
The work has been organised by Sunderland arc and the Sunniside Partnership.
Ben Hall, director of Sunniside Partnership, said: "The excavation of this site is an extremely sensitive process, which is why specialist archaeologists have been appointed.
"They are investigating all the material underneath the building and while this work is carried out the site has been screened, sealed and secured for health and safety reasons."
Matthew Town, project manager from contractor North Pennines Archaeology, said: "The work presents a rare opportunity to learn more about the lifestyles of people in 19th-century Sunderland."
The site has been earmarked for family housing.
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