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Archaeological Desk-Based Assessments

At Heritage Unlimited, we deliver thorough desk-based archaeological assessments to fulfil local planning authority requirements for developments in Archaeological Priority Areas.

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At Heritage Unlimited, we deliver thorough desk-based archaeological assessments to fulfil local planning authority requirements for developments in Archaeological Priority Areas (APAs) or sites with suspected archaeological interest. These assessments are essential as outlined in Paragraph 207 of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), ensuring that potential heritage assets with archaeological value are properly considered before any development proceeds. This type of report is separate to and usually in conjunction with a heritage statement, providing focused analysis on below-ground archaeological potential to complement broader heritage impact evaluations.

Our assessments draw on a wide range of sources to establish the site’s historical context and potential for buried remains. This includes data from the historic environment record (HER), historic map regression, geological information, and reviews of previous archaeological works in the vicinity. By compiling and analysing this evidence, we provide a comprehensive understanding of the site’s archaeological background.

The process evaluates the archaeological significance of the site—whether of local, regional, or national importance—and assesses the likely impact of proposed works, such as new builds or ground disturbances, on any heritage assets. We ensure all assessments comply with standards from the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA) and Historic England guidelines, helping to identify risks and opportunities for preservation.

Conservation Area Appraisals

Heritage Unlimited can provide detailed and meaningful Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Plans.

Conservation Management Plans

Our expert team understands the unique historical context of each building, and our comprehensive plans help guide and manage future works to a heritage asset.

Development Advice & Design Guidance

Fully understanding the heritage constraints of your development at an early stage can save both time and money as more often than not, heritage is an afterthought.

Heritage Appeal Statements

If your application has been refused, an appeal can still help you achieve your goals. Appeals safeguard fairness in planning decisions and remain a vital route to securing a positive outcome.

Heritage Assessments

Our Heritage Assessments set out the significance of affected assets and the likely impact of your proposals. They support pre application discussions and help shape projects from the earliest stages.

Heritage Statements

Required for any application affecting a heritage asset, this document explains the asset’s significance, outlines proposed changes to its fabric or setting, and assesses them against statutory and NPPF tests.

Historic Building Recording

Often required as a planning condition, this work documents a building to one of four recording levels, from basic to highly detailed. We provide all levels of recording for listed and non designated heritage assets.

Listed Building Consent Applications

Are the formal process for making changes to a listed building and at Heritage Unlimited we can prepare, submit and monitor the application on your behalf.

Listed Building Survey & Repair Advice

At Heritage Unlimited our understanding of historic and traditional construction methods mean we are well versed in providing suitable repair solutions for historic buildings.

Energy Efficiency and Retrofit

Our ABBE Level 3 accredited experts advise on retrofitting historic buildings for enhanced energy efficiency, lower bills and emissions, while preserving building integrity.

Archaeological Desk-Based Assessments

At Heritage Unlimited, we deliver thorough desk-based archaeological assessments to fulfil local planning authority requirements for developments in Archaeological Priority Areas.

Planning Objections

Concerned or affected by a proposed development that impacts a listed building or conservation area? Heritage Unlimited can prepare policy-led planning objections on your behalf from inappropriate schemes.

Frequently Asked Questions

A desk-based assessment is typically needed for developments in Archaeological Priority Areas (APAs) or sites with potential archaeological interest, as stipulated by the NPPF. It helps local planning authorities determine if the proposal could affect buried remains or monuments.
The process includes consulting historic environment records, analysing historic maps, reviewing previous archaeological work in the area, and assessing the site’s geological and historical context to establish archaeological potential and recommend any mitigation measures.
Depending on the site’s complexity, a desk-based assessment can usually be completed within 4-6 weeks from instruction, including site visits where appropriate, ensuring timely submission to support your planning application.