Project flexibility as well as a reduction in development time and costs
Geophysical surveys have proved invaluable to help inform the planning process and where necessary, to help prevent the development impacting upon sensitive archaeological remains.
The main benefit of geophysical surveys is that they are a rapid and cost-effective way of informing clients about potential buried archaeological remains within development sites – and the risk they may face.
At an early, stage a survey can allow the flexibility to design out areas which suggest dense and complex archaeology is present within masterplans, for utilities allows different route options to be considered and also allows budgets for archaeological investigations to be drawn up early in the development process.
There are many types of development projects that can benefit from such a survey. They include housing developments, road construction projects, mineral extraction situations, pipeline laying projects and renewables developments such as wind and solar farms.
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Geophysical surveys may also be employed on a smaller scale, ahead of a wide range of developments involving ground disturbance.
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The benefits of geophysical surveys
In the long run undertaking a survey can save both time and money for developers in all sectors. It can be especially effective if completed in combination with a constraints report.
Source: Wardell Archaeology