Watching Briefs

An archaeological watching brief involves the monitoring of groundworks or building renovation by an archaeologist. They are normally required as a condition of planning consent and may be part of a wider mitigation strategy for a development.

right: A watching brief during pipeline construction. © CPAT 2441-004

Typically, watching briefs may be undertaken during the topsoiling operations associated with pipelines, road schemes, quarrying, as well as smaller-scale developments. Any archaeological remains which are enclountered will usually be dealt with by the archaeologist on site, with little or no disruption to the overall scheme. Any significant archaeological discoveries may, however, lead to more extensive investigation and recording.

left: A watching brief during excavations in a churchyard. © CPAT 2473-005

For further information and competitive quotations on any of our services contact:

Bob Silvester, Deputy Director and Head of Field Services
bobsilvester@cpat.org.uk
Direct line 01938 552035

Nigel Jones, Senior Project Archaeologist
nigel@cpat.org.uk
Direct line 01938 552002