Assessments are normally carried out in order to ascertain the nature and extent of the archaeological potential of an area based upon visible environmental characteristics. They are primarily a desktop based report with an element of fieldwork. Our archaeological assessments generally include field walking/site visit, examination of upstanding or visible features, if any and documentary research within a proposed development area. It may also include other specialist applications such as geophysical survey or aerial photography, as necessary.

What does archaeological testing involve?

Test excavation is sometimes carried out as part of a more detailed assessment in order to ascertain the nature and extent of any sub-surface archaeological features which may exist below the present ground level. This type of investigation is normally carried out when the proposed development is in close proximity to a known archaeological monument listed in the Record of Monuments and Places (RMP). The testing involves removing a strip of topsoil (c. 1.8m width) to expose the subsoil below. If archaeology is present, it can be seen with the trained eye at the upper levels of the subsoil. The testing strips are excavated in the areas which are most likely to be disturbed during the proposed development. For example, a single house will be tested across the footprint of the house foundation, garage, percolation and driveway areas.

Why is archaeological testing necessary?

Archaeological testing is normally undertaken as a Further Information Request, however, it can be submitted with the initial planning application if a pre-planning meeting confirms that it is likely to be requested. The purpose of undertaking the testing exercise is in order to see if any archaeology is present across the proposed development site. Ideally, if archaeology is found to be present in the early stages of a development, it can allow for modification to the site layout plan to avoid the archaeology, whilst facilitating the proposed development. This is known as preservation in situ i.e. preserving the archaeology in its existing location, without disturbance. If sanctioned by the National Monuments Section of the Department of the Environment and the National Museum of Ireland, the archaeology may be fully excavated under license. This is known as preservation by record. Once archaeology is resolved under license on a given development site, the authorities normally allow the development to proceed.

Report writing

We produce a fully illustrated assessment report based on the results of the documentary research and any fieldwork, including testing. An archaeological impact statement forms a fundamental part of this report and describes the direct or in-direct physical or visual impacts a proposed development may have upon the archaeological heritage, if any. The aim of the report is to allow the relevant authorities to make an informed planning decision in each individual case. In most cases, no further archaeological input is required and the authorities may allow a development to proceed.