Archaeology Desk Based Assessment

What is an Archaeology Desk-Based Assessment?

An Archaeology Desk Based Assessment (DBA) from AB Heritage is the  key tool in  archaeological  assessment as part of a planning application, to provide greater understanding of the known and potential archaeological resource within and in close proximity to a site.

These professional reports provide a full Heritage Impact Assessment that identifies the potential risk to a project because of archaeology being present, creating a bespoke set of recommendations. 

What does an Archaeology Desk-Based Assessment include?

Produced by collecting data from a wide range of sources, a DBA  includes information from:

• historic documents – such as photos, maps, insurance records, diaries, articles and government documents – held by Record Offices, Archives and Online Sources
• Historic Environment Records
• Previous Geotechnical Investigation works
• A site visit
• Previous archaeological reports and journals
• Aerial photographs and LiDAR images held by various national repositories an
• Consultation with the Local Planning Authority Archaeologist and national heritage agencies.

This data is assessed and provided within a professional report, which is compliant with the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists Standards and Guidance.

When is An Assessment needed?

An Archaeology DBA is often requested where an understanding of the below ground archaeology resource is required as part of a planning application. This can be due to a request from the local planning authority, who require more information to inform their decision-making process, or as part of much larger works such Environmental Impact Assessment.

An archaeology DBA helps clients successfully navigate the planning system in a way that balances the needs of development and the Historic Environment.