Archaeological Research and Mitigation
Project Planning and Research
We have experience of designing and setting up archaeological investigations of all scales. Initial documentation may include a Written Scheme of Investigation, in this document details of the fieldwork and post-excavation methodologies for the project are presented. Effective project design is essential to deliver high-quality archaeological investigations on time and to budget.
Archaeological Desk Based Assessment
An Archaeological Desk Based Assessment will specifically assess the potential and significance of the archaeological resource within a site. A primary aim of the assessment is to indicate the likelihood and level of heritage constraints that may arise within the proposed development. Information included within the report may include consultation of the local Historic Environment Record (HER), documentary research, site visits, assessment of archaeological assets and recommendations for further work if necessary and appropriate.
Archaeological Survey
An Archaeological Survey of a landscapes survey aims to examine large areas in order to detect evidence of past activity in an area. Remains may survive above ground in the form of buildings, artefact scatters or topographic anomalies, others may lie buried beneath the surface and can be examined using geophysical survey. An Archaeological Survey employs one or more of a range of non-invasive field techniques to identify any potential heritage constraints and to inform developments regarding the need for further below-ground investigation prior to development. Types of archaeological survey include: Walkover Survey, Geophysical Survey, and Aerial Survey
Walkover Survey
Archaeological Walkover Survey (or Surface Artefact Collection) involves the systematic recovery and recording of artefacts found on the surface. A team of archaeologists walk a site or landscape methodically, collecting artefacts from the surface. A concentration of finds in a specific area is often a good indicator of subsurface remains and provides a focus for further investigation. More extensive areas can be surveyed in a similar manner but using vehicles to cover greater areas, however with lower resolution. Walkover Survey is often conducted in conjunction with the analysis of documentary sources, such as historic maps, and aerial survey to provide a detailed picture of activity in a landscape in the past.
Geophysical Survey
Geophysical Survey offers a rapid non-intrusive method of detecting potential sub-surface archaeology. Techniques include magnetometry, resistivity, magnetic susceptibility and ground penetrating radar, each having a particular strength dependent on the underlying geology, soil conditions and feature type.
Aerial Survey and UAV Drone Survey
Features that are not visible on the ground often become visible when viewed from the air. Aerial photography uses the effects of shadow to reveal slight differences in ground level and variations in soil colour or the density of crop growth to indicate buried features. Aerial Surveys can utilise existing aerial images or UAV Drone Surveys can provide new high-resolution geo-rectified images. A drone may also be employed to inspect otherwise inaccessible parts of buildings or landscapes.
Archaeological Watching Brief
An archaeological Watching Brief is usually undertaken to monitor groundworks on sites where there is either a history of or likelihood of archaeological remains. Working in conjunction with developers invasive ground works (such foundation or utility trenching) are monitored to ensure any archaeology present is fully recorded. If significant remains are encountered further archaeological investigation and recording may be required.
Archaeological Evaluation
An Archaeological Evaluation usually consists of trial trenching, the results of which determine the level of archaeological survival and whether there is a need for more detailed investigation. Trial trenching establishes the depth and character of any surviving archaeological deposits or features. The aim of Archaeological Evaluation is to determining the archaeological character of a site and whether further archaeological mitigation is required.
Archaeological Excavation
Archaeological Excavation can be undertaken for research or to mitigate for a development project, by recording and removing archaeological deposits (preservation my record). Within a development setting excavation is likely to be required where the archaeological remains are of such significance that a programme of detailed investigation and recording of buried deposits is required.
Post-Excavation Analysis & Recording
Post-Excavation is the process of analysis, cataloguing and interpretation of all the artefactual, environmental, and stratigraphic evidence collected during archaeological fieldwork. Post excavation work uses a range of analytical and scientific techniques to answer questions such as date, form, function, and provenance of archaeological material. All such works are consistent with international professional standards and respective scientific specialisms. We deliver high quality post-excavation reporting and publication and have proven track record of work in the region.