Archaeological Investigation Workflow
Appraisal
Firstly, the site’s potential is evaluated (appraised) by the Planning Archaeologist using the Historic Environment Record and other information held by the Heritage Conservation Team.Assessment
The Planning Archaeologist may request an assessment for more detailed site-specific information, to inform the planning decision and appropriate mitigation strategies. This can be in the form of a desk-based assessment and/or field evaluation or building assessment. This may take the form of a trial-excavation of a percentage of the site, or a geophysical or topographical survey.Mitigation
Options to reduce (mitigate) the impact of development on archaeological remains. This may include specific requirements for preservation in situ and/or sympathetic design, or requirements for further investigation and recording (for example further excavation and publication).It is national and local practice that the developer, in most cases, covers the costs of archaeological work made necessary by development. Development-led archaeology is carried out by professional archaeological contractors.
Information on professional archaeological organisations can be obtained from the Institute of Field Archaeologists, which maintains a Register of Archaeological Organisations. Details for professional archaeological contractors can be found online on the Yellow Pages website and also from the Institute of Field Archaeologists website.
The Heritage Conservation Team cannot give advice on the cost of archaeological work. Quotes for work can be obtained from archaeological contactors. The cost will vary depending on the type of work required.
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