A Rapid Site Appraisal provides a swift overview of any archaeological and built heritage constraints associated with a potential development site. Prepared to a short turnaround, it gives clients an early indication of possible heritage risks and sensitivities that may influence project viability.

While less detailed than a full Desk-Based Assessment and not intended to support a planning application, a Rapid Site Appraisal is particularly valuable during land acquisition, disposal, or initial feasibility stages, helping inform commercial decisions at the outset.

Our assessments draw together information from historic maps, archival sources, previous archaeological investigations, statutory heritage designations, aerial imagery, LiDAR data, and relevant local and national records. This research allows us to identify known heritage assets, assess the potential for previously unrecorded remains, and evaluate how proposed development may affect them.

By identifying issues at the outset, our Desk-Based Assessments help clients factor heritage considerations into project design, budgets, and delivery programmes, reducing uncertainty and avoiding unexpected delays or costs later in the process.

We have extensive experience of preparing Cultural Heritage Chapters for Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) and Environmental Statements (ES). Our staff can integrate seamlessly into your wider consultant team, providing dedicated heritage expertise at any stage of a project.

The Cultural Heritage chapter is informed by a robust evidence base. This typically includes a detailed desk-based assessment, a review of known heritage assets, and the results of non-intrusive surveys such as geophysical investigation, which are usually presented as technical appendices. Drawing on this information, we assess the potential for below-ground archaeology to be present within a site, as well as evaluating the likely impact from proposed development on the significance of heritage assets within the wider landscape.

All of our reports are supported by high-quality illustrations and visual material produced by our dedicated graphics specialists. We produce accurate plans, surveys, historic maps, LiDAR transcriptions and other detailed drawings that are tailored to meet the requirements of local planning authorities, conservation officers, and Historic Environment Records.

Our visual outputs strengthen planning submissions and present heritage assets with clarity and precision.