Managing the Archaeology

Introduction

The County Historic Environment and Archaeology Service provides comprehensive archaeological expertise for the area - ranging from heritage management, through excavation and survey, to specialised finds and environmental services and educational programmes. The ultimate aim is to provide advice and data on which to build and implement policies for the protection and interpretation of the rich and varied archaeology of the county.

The Service is able to offer a strategic overview for managing the archaeology in the county. Local community involvement is also provided - through a network of 'parish correspondents'.

Archaeology as an Integral Part of the Development Process

Archaeology is a finite and non-renewable resource. The need to preserve significant remains in situ is now recognised by both national and local government policies as an integral part of the planning process - and as a material consideration for deciding any planning application. This places a great responsibility on any prospective developer. The developer needs to seek qualified advice regarding the impact that development proposals may have on any archaeological remains. If information and advice is sought at the earliest possible stage, then the archaeological implications of any development can be assessed and the results more easily incorporated into the design of a sympathetic development or new land-use A building footprint might be moved, or a different type of foundation employed. Archaeology need NOT be a problem for developers!

Heritage Protection

The Historic Environment and  Archaeology Service has a primary responsibility for the protection of archaeological sites and landscapes.

This is achieved in a number of ways.

* Maintenance of the County Sites and Monuments Record - the most comprehensive database on archaeology in the county (over 20,000 sites).

* Undertaking thematic surveys to provide a sound academic basis for the establishment of archaeological priorities.

* Monitoring of all proposals for planned developments in the county - planning applications, road lines, pipelines etc.

* Advice on the production of management plans and policies for the protection of archaeological sites and landscapes for the County Council, district councils, public utilities (such as the water companies), landowners, developers, mineral operators, forestry and agricultural bodies.

* Liaison on archaeological issues within the county with national and local bodies, including the Department of Transport, Department of the Environment, Department of National Heritage, English Heritage and the Royal Commission on the Historical Monuments of England.

Heritage Interpretation

The archaeological resource can be more easily managed for the future if it is better appreciated in the present. All sections of the Historic Environment and  Archaeology Service actively try to increase understanding and awareness of the county's archaeological and historic development - as expressed in its archaeological sites and historic landscapes. The Service tries to make the past more accessible - through publicity, displays and educational programmes.

To this end, the Service also works closely with other archaeological and museum organisations in the county, both professional and amateur. The Service liaises closely with local archaeological societies in the development and execution of archaeological projects, including field survey, building recording and publication. It promotes the 'Groups Forum' to improve communication between the various societies. The County Council also maintains its own Museums Service as a 'sister' organisation. The aim is to further promote the use of the county's archaeological resource for educational, cultural and leisure activities, wherever appropriate.

Worcestershire has a proud heritage that should be presented in as informative and enjoyable way as possible. The need to incorporate interpretative elements may well, therefore, be included in advice concerning a development proposal or in formulating a planning brief.

Quality Assurance

Quality of service is vital. There is a system of internal monitoring to help ensure a consistent level of advice to clients. Assistance is also provided in the implementation of archaeological advice in the field (whether by other sections of the Service itself or by an outside contracting body) to help ensure an all-round quality of archaeological provision to the county.

Community Service

The Service has a clear commitment to work as an established community service. It is always willing to offer advice and help; whether you be a member of the public interested in the history of your parish, a landowner or tenant concerned that you might disturb an ancient site (or not sure whether you actually have a site on your land), or a developer planning a new scheme.

The field section of the Service also provides a valuable function in the management of the archaeological resource in being able to respond rapidly to implement advice and provide county-based technical skills and experience.

The Historic Environment and Archaeology Service is open to the public Monday - Friday throughout the year (except bank holidays), 9.30am to 4.30pm. Admission is by prior appointment only.

If you wish to consult the Sites and Monuments Record please contact the Information and Records Officer. For other enquiries and advice, in the first instance contact the County Archaeology Officer.