Gruesome images released to KentOnline show human remains unearthed on a city centre building site.

A number of skeletons – including those of children – have been found in a plot previously occupied by the Peugeot garage on the city’s ring-road.

Archaeologists excavating the concrete and ground beneath made the discovery in recent weeks.

Canterbury Archaeological Trust, which is heading the dig, is refusing to comment and says reports will be published in due course.

But KentOnline understands the bones are thought to be Roman and could date back almost 2,000 years.

Developers are transforming the site into purpose-built student digs boasting 530 “five star” rooms and apartments.

Due to its archaeological sensitivity, the plot is being painstakingly excavated by experts before the bulldozers and pile-drivers move in.

Contractors’ hoardings currently shield the dig from passers by, and a number of residents have expressed concern about the work being carried out.

But a spokesman for Guy Hollaway Architects, which has designed the future development, says every effort is being made to preserve what lies beneath.

“The contractors are fully aware of the sensitivity of the area – Roman remains and burial grounds are not altogether uncommon,” he said.

“Before any ground works begin the whole site is carefully inspected and artefacts and remains are removed and preserved.”

The spokesman added that it is thought that Norman remains may be also be uncovered in the site in due course.

Canterbury City Council says the skeletons will be removed and analysed by experts.

Spokesman Rob Davies said: “We’re aware that remains have been found at the Rhodaus Town site.

“The dig is continuing so it’s too early to give full information on the discovery.

“All the remains will be removed and a full analysis will be carried out to try and determine matters such as gender and age.

“This will not be a quick process but ultimately, once complete, the bodies will be re-interred sensitively at a location still to be determined.”