Top Tips on Archaeological Conditions

If you've submitted your planning application and received your approval with an unexpected surprise - archaeological conditions - don't panic! While it might seem like a curveball, understanding and dealing with these conditions can be smooth sailing with the right approach.

Tip 1: Deciphering The Condition

Archaeological Conditions will often contain standard wording that's not specific to your project and may be difficult to decipher. It may sound something like this:

No development shall take place until the implementation of a programme of archaeological works in accordance with a Written Scheme of Investigation that has been submitted to and approved in writing by the local planning authority.

Get in touch with a Heritage Consultant who can translate the jargon for you. Your Heritage Consultant will liaise with the archaeological advisor to agree the scope of works and give you an idea of the likely cost implications. GHC Archaeology & Heritage has an expert team of heritage professionals who can minimise the risks to your development that be substantial in terms on cost and deliverability.

Tip 2: Stages of Investigation

There may be several stages of investigation needed to discharge a single condition depending on the nature of the site and archaeological remains. Although each site is approached differently, here is a common programme of archaeological works:

• Desk-Based Assessment: To establish the archaeological context of the site and potential for archaeological remains to be present.

• Evaluation (e.g. Geophysical Survey, Trial Trenching, Fieldwalking): To confirm presence/absence, nature and significance of archaeological remains.

• Mitigation (e.g. Open Area Excavation, Watching Brief): If significant remains are identified during evaluation, further archaeological work may be required to mitigate development impacts on archaeology.

Tip 3: Discharging the Condition

Condition discharge can usually be sought following all stages of work having been completed successfully to the satisfaction of the archaeological advisor to the local planning authority. Bear in mind that this might be following the approval of the final report.