On sites containing limited archaeological deposits the developer’s groundwork’s are observed and any deposits are quickly recorded, to ensure minimal delay to the developers work programme. Watching briefs form the third level of direct archaeological site investigation.

The aim of our project approach and our focus on good forward planning is to allow archaeological recording to be completed, wherever possible, well in advance of construction work, through services such as desk-based assessment, site evaluation, excavation and preservation measures. However, often the site may require a 'Watching Brief' during construction work. This strategy is normally used when prior assessment has indicated a probability of limited archaeological remains, or where investigation has already taken place on part of the site and a follow-up operation is required for the remaining areas. Watching Brief’s may require a single site visit to observe the digging of construction trenches for a single house plot or it could involve a continuous presence on the development site for a longer duration, to monitor soil stripping operations along a road corridor, pipeline or other major development.

Focussing on client needs, we target archaeological recording on key tasks in the contractor's programme, in order to minimise delay. Good communications are essential particularly between the attending archaeologist and the contractor's site manager, since works programmes are likely to change from day to day and issues must be dealt with as they arise.

Watching briefs should also have a contingency plan, so that if something completely unexpected was to appear there would be provision to carry out a more detailed investigation.

To find out more about archaeological watching briefs and how this may affect your development, please contact us.

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