We will carry out desk-based assessments to summarise the extent of existing archaeological and historical knowledge relating to proposed developments.

This typically involves consultation of the local Sites and Monuments Register (SMR) database, historic maps and documents, aerial photographs and previous any archaeological work.

The finished report will inform decisions regarding any further fieldwork and provision of mitigation strategies. Simple data collection via local SMR visits can also be carried out by Benchmark Archaeology on behalf of larger archaeological contractors.

All projects are carried out in accordance with PPG 16 (DOE, 1990) and the guidelines and recommendations issued by The Institute of Field Archaeologists and English Heritage.