Archaeological Watching Brief
Archaeological Watching Brief (Archaeological Monitoring)
A watching brief is one of the most common archaeological planning conditions. APAC Ltd undertakes a large number of watching briefs each year, ranging from small-scale groundworks to larger, phased development projects. Typically, a watching brief is required where an area is considered likely to contain archaeological remains, but the development impact is limited, or where earlier phases of archaeological work have already been carried out, and monitoring of subsequent groundworks is recommended.
What a Watching Brief Involves
An archaeological watching brief (sometimes referred to as archaeological monitoring) is a programme of observation and investigation undertaken during groundworks. The purpose is to identify, record and interpret archaeological remains that may be exposed during development, ensuring that any significant heritage assets are properly documented in accordance with planning requirements.
In practice, this means an experienced archaeologist is present during groundworks, assessing exposed soils and features in real time and making professional decisions about what is or is not archaeologically significant.
This includes:
• Recognising archaeological features and deposits
• Understanding local geology and soil formation
• Advising when additional recording or investigation is required
• Ensuring important evidence is not lost during construction
Why Watching Briefs are used
Watching briefs are often specified where:
• Archaeological potential is known but likely to be limited or localised
• Previous archaeological work has already been completed on the site
• Development impacts are relatively shallow or restricted
• Monitoring is considered a proportionate mitigation response
Watching briefs allow archaeological evidence to be identified and recorded if present, while avoiding unnecessary excavation where it is not justified by the archaeology.
