A watching brief is usually requested by your local planning authority where a previous desk-based assessment and/or archaeological evaluation has shown a development site to have only limited archaeological potential or significance. A watching brief without preliminary investigation may also be requested by the County Archaeologist for small scale works where there will be minimal sub-surface impact such as putting in or replacing existing services.

This form of archaeological monitoring will require a qualified archaeologist to be on-site to identify and record any archaeology once groundworks begin (including initial soil stripping). This may be either on a full-time or part-time basis depending on the project specification provided by the County Archaeologist. The archaeologist on site will record quickly and efficiently any archaeological deposits or finds which are encountered without unduly holding up construction. At Archaeo-Environment we recognise your need to keep to tight timescales and always ensure that all our staff have the appropriate expertise and equipment to hand to minimise any costly delays and keep your project moving.

If you would like to talk through the requirements of your particular project then please give us a call on 01833 650573, or 0191 3750943; alternatively e-mail us at info@aenvironment.co.uk.