Where important archaeological remains are thought to be at risk from development, or if the development could impact on a Scheduled Monument or Registered Park and Garden, the developer will be required to arrange for an archaeological evaluation of the site to be undertaken and submitted as part of the planning application.The Essex Historic Environment Record should be the primary source for assessment for archaeological potential. The evaluation will assess the character, significance and extent of the archaeological remains and will allow an informed decision to be made on the planning application. Such assessments should be proportionate to the importance of the site and a programme of archaeological investigation may be necessary for sites likely to contain significant archaeology.

Planning permission will not be granted if the remains identified are of sufficient importance to be preserved in situ and cannot be so preserved in the context of the development proposed, taking account of the necessary construction techniques to be used.

Where archaeological potential is identified but there is no overriding case for any remains to be preserved in situ, development which would destroy or disturb potential remains will be permitted, subject to conditions ensuring an appropriate programme of archaeological investigation, recording, reporting and archiving, prior to development commencing.There will be a requirement to make the result of these investigations publicly accessible.

For more information, please visit Braintree District Council’s Local Plan here.