Development archaeology, in plain English

The specialist who advises a planning authority on archaeological significance, scope, fieldwork and whether submitted work satisfies an archaeological requirement.

A proportionate investigation, often trial trenching, used to establish the presence, character, date, condition and significance of archaeological remains before mitigation is agreed.

Agreed measures that avoid, reduce or record the effect of development on archaeology. These can include preservation in situ, excavation, strip map and sample, or a watching brief.

The ordered physical and digital record produced by a project, including finds, samples, drawings, photographs, survey data and documentation prepared for an approved repository.

The planning authority’s written confirmation that the information or work required by a condition is sufficient. Fieldwork completion alone may not discharge reporting and archive obligations.

A study of existing records, maps, reports, designations and landscape evidence used to assess archaeological potential, significance and likely development effects.

Non-intrusive measurement of physical contrasts below ground. Magnetometry is common, but geology, alluvium, modern disturbance and the type of archaeology affect what it can detect.

A maintained information resource recording known archaeology, historic buildings, investigations and related evidence for an area. It informs assessment but is not a complete map of everything buried.

A national online system used to record archaeological and heritage investigations and connect project information with reports and archives.

The stage after fieldwork that assesses records, finds and samples, identifies further analysis, and sets out the work required to complete reporting and archive.

Retaining archaeological remains undisturbed in the ground, normally through design, foundation or level changes and an agreed protection strategy.

A planning condition requiring specified information or approval before development, or a defined part of it, can lawfully begin.

A mitigation method in which overburden is removed under archaeological control, exposed features are planned, and an agreed proportion is excavated and recorded.

Machine-excavated trenches opened under archaeological control to sample a site and test the results of earlier assessment or survey.

Archaeological observation during specified construction groundworks, with provision to investigate and record remains encountered. It is suitable only where the agreed risk and construction sequence allow it.

The project-specific document setting out aims, methods, staffing, sampling, reporting, archiving, timetable and other controls for archaeological work before it starts.