Archaeological features contain evidence that helps us understand Cornwall's past. They inform:
how Cornwall developed over time
our identity and culture.
New features are identified all the time and need to be understood. This often happens where:
there has been no previous assessment or investigation
an area is to be developed.
Advice and guidance
We give advice on archaeology to:
Cornwall Council
outside agencies
developers
archaeological contractors
residents.
Our advice is based on the evidence in the Historic Environment Record (HER). We also use new information from assessment, geophysical survey and small investigations on proposed development sites.
We advise on the impact of a proposed development on archaeology. Our aim is to find a positive way to manage this impact.
You can find out more information in our Archaeological Handbook for Cornwall.
You can contact Cornwall Council's Historic Environment Planning Archaeology team at: hep.arch@cornwall.gov.uk
Help for planning applicants and developers
As part of the planning process, it is sometimes necessary to understand archaeology.
We help target archaeological work to meet the required guidance and planning policies. We also advise on how to best record historic buildings in the planning process.
Our services include:
advice to the Local Planning Authority
working with applicants and archaeological contractors who undertake assessments and mitigation
providing a pre-submission review service for key documents needed to fulfil planning conditions.
More archaeology resources
You can find out more about archaeology and planning using these links:
Archaeological Handbook: archaeology and the planning system in Cornwall
Archaeology and the planning process - a Guide for Developers
Planning and Archaeology - advice by Historic England on archaeology and the planning system.