Welcome to SouthWest Archaeology

SouthWest Archaeology is a well-established and independent practice based in South Molton, Devon. We have a broad depth of experience in a wide range of archaeological techniques, including desk-based assessments historic building recordings and excavations. We work in close partnership with a variety of bodies such as planners, architects, government bodies and other associated parties in order to achieve the best possible results for our clients and the archaeological record.

We provide a whole range of archaeological services including project consultancy,watching briefs,geophysical surveys and naturally excavation services.A dedicated and highly professional staff across a variety of archaeological and other disciplines are the cornerstone of the practice.We ensure that our clients are able to fulfil the archaeological requirements of the planning process and corporate responsibility with the aim of keeping costs and delays to a minimum. We have experience of a wide variety of projects in both urban and rural settings including listed buildings and scheduled monuments.

We at SouthWest Archaeology understand the time pressures and complexities that our clients face, so we aim to provide a professional and comprehensive service which minimises any of the added pressures archaeological planning constraints may have created. We aim to ensure that our clients are able to fulfil the archaeological requirements of the planning process and their corporate responsibility while keeping costs and delays to a minimum. Our primary aim is to provide total satisfaction, on time, and on budget. We welcome enquiries from private individuals, large commercial organisations and public sector departments. We are also pleased to hear from those who have an interest in archaeology and might wish to take part in some of our research projects.

Archaeological Issues?

Q: Why are archaeological planning conditions imposed?

A: Archaeological planning conditions are imposed where an "important" archaeological site is known to be present on a development area, and the local planning authority is therefore seeking to ensure that the remains can either be preserved in situ, or that they are recorded and reported by trained archaeological professionals. This, however, makes the assumption that it is possible, in advance of any archaeological investigations, to know exactly where all “important” sites are found and what their function and significance was. Therefore archaeological planning conditions are also imposed where the County Archaeological Officer thinks that something might be present or where it has not been demonstrated that any archaeological remains are of limited interest or have already been destroyed in earlier developments to the site.For more information on Archaeology and planning applications, check out our Links page, where you will be guided to the relevant planning guidance and archaeological guidelines.

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Planning Issues?

Guide for Archaeology in Planning

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