The housebuilder — who is funding the ongoing excavation — is working with RPS Consulting Services as archaeological consultants, and Archaeology South-East, which are undertaking the field work to excavate the artefacts.

The artefacts are in the process of being recorded by historical experts. 

It is believed that the findings will lead to some academic rethinking on what occurred in Barking during the Roman, Saxon, and medieval periods.

The excavation has found two small buildings, which likely date back to the early medieval period under the Saxons, as well as a fine chalk block wall, which may date back to the 12th century as part of the Barking Abbey precinct wall.

A smaller riverside structure which was found may have been used to dry or smoke fish for banquets at the Barking Abbey.

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Other historically important findings include a finely-carved bone spoon, likely to be early medieval in date, and appears to have possibly come from Scandinavia.

According to the experts, a significant amount of Roman building materials was re-used in early medieval structures, with many Roman roof tiles reused to form floors.

Weston Homes are working alongside Historic England, London Borough of Barking and Dagenham, and their own expert archaeological team, to find a way to showcase the findings.

Possible ideas include building glass flooring in the new Abbey Quays development, which would enable visitors to look at the Barking Abbey wall ruins.

Bob Weston, chairman at Weston Homes, said: “Weston Homes are committed to ensuring that the historic findings at Barking are rightfully protected and preserved. 

“It is exciting to know that we have found several important pieces of British history that will help to shape our understanding of the early Anglo-Roman and medieval eras. 

“We look forward to working with the archaeological teams as the excavation continues over the coming weeks.”