Generic brief for an archaeological evaluation (trial trenching)

Paragraph 194 of the National Planning Policy Framework (2021) states that where a site has potential to include heritage assets with archaeological interest, local planning authorities should require developers to submit an appropriate desk-based assessment and, where necessary, field evaluation.

Field evaluation can involve a wide range of survey and investigative techniques, including for example fieldwalking and geophysical survey – however, this brief only covers situations where trial trenching is considered the most appropriate approach.