The possibility of earthworks or other physical remains

These surveys are usually requested by local planning authorities or as part of various environmental and historic stewardship schemes when there is a possibility of the survival of earthworks or other physical remains within an area that may be significantly affected by development, or to quantify the historical landscape resource for a particular area.

The simplest form of survey is a walkover survey, which will involve a specialist team visiting the development area and assessing the site for the presence of earthworks and buildings etc. A photographic and written record will then be produced.

Specialist surveying resources

Wardell Armstrong Archaeology uses a wide range of precision instruments for survey work. For larger areas and for areas where it is harder to locate sites, such as moors and parks, survey is undertaken with the addition of a survey-quality Global Positioning System, which can accurately plot sites to within a few centimetres. For complex earthwork systems, such as fields of ridge and furrow or deserted medieval villages a topographic survey of archaeological features may be carried out.

The data is presented in a report, with figures and plates and a gazetteer of all sites identified, along with detailed analysis of the landscape’s origins. Copies of the report can be submitted to the planning authority or grant body as necessary.

Wardell Armstrong Archaeology has trained archaeologists who are able to undertake these surveys at short notice and at competitive prices.