Since 2012, Local Planning Authorities have been obliged to adhere to the Government's National Policy and Planning Framework (NPPF) which sets out the Government's planning policies for the historic environment and heritage assets. If a development site lies in an area where there are known or potential heritage assets, then a Planning Authority will most likely impose an archaeological condition.

The nature of the archaeological condition varies on a project by project basis and is determined by the location of the development site. Types of work which might be required range from paper-based reports such as a desk based assessment or heritage impact statement to field-based work including building recording, evaluations and watching briefs. Click here to look at the services we offer and how we can help you with any archaeological conditions imposed.

The Planning Authority will require you as the developer to commission an archaeologist to undertake the necessary work to discharge the condition; it's important to remember any breach of a condition might result in enforcement action or withdrawal of consent so you should always get advice at an early stage. In some instances it may be prudent to commission a desk based assessment prior to submitting an application as this can help inform the Planning Authority's decision as to what, if any further archaeological work is required and may save on costs in the long run.

There is no reason that it should if you get advice early on. Here at Groundworks Archaeology, we understand that timeliness is crucial to any development and work flexibly with our clients to meet their timetable.