Desk Based Assessment
 |
 |
"A programme of assessment of the known or potential archaeological resource within a specified area or site" (Institute of Field Archaeologists Standards and Guidance).
A Desk-Based Assessment will typically include information from maps and plans of the area, both modern and historical, all relevant data from county Sites and Monuments Records (SMR), aerial photograph evidence, geological information, and any archaeological literature relating to previous investigations on or near the site. The Desk-Based Assessment will also consider the potential impact that proposed development will have on the area under study.
A Desk-Based Assessment is often the first step required in the planning process and is sometimes commissioned by clients to include with the initial application. It involves a full desk-based investigation of the archaeological potential of a site and will be used frequently by the planning authorities to determine the need for further archaeological investigation on a particular site.
As the first phase of a process, Desk-Based Assessments are of great importance in any development project and it is imperative that you use a company that you can trust to deliver an accurate and high quality outcome. A poor Desk-Based Assessment can result in unexpected expense and costly delays, thereby increasing the risk to the developer. At ARS Ltd we pride ourselves on the professional and thorough service we offer to clients, ensuring sound advice from the outset.
< Back to services