1.0 Introduction

1.1    The purpose of this draft Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG) is to provide more detailed information and guidance on archaeology and planning.  Its principal purpose when adopted is to supplement the policies of the existing and emerging Development Plan and should be read in conjunction with these (see section 4.0 below).  It also clarifies development control procedures and Planning Policy Guidance notes (Planning Policy Guidance Note 16: Archaeology and Planning, DoE 1990 & Planning Policy Guidance Note 15: Planning and the Historic Environment, DoE/DNH 1994) issued by Government.  It will also be a material consideration in the determination of planning applications relating to the historic environment.

1.2    Further, more detailed guidance dealing specifically with Bath, Keynsham and Norton Radstock will be prepared as part of a suite of guidance relating to archaeology and the historic environment. These more detailed guidance notes will benefit from in-depth assessments of archaeological potential and characterisation in those places.

1.3    Archaeology exists throughout the District in all locations.  It comprises buried archaeological remains, scheduled monuments, historic parks and gardens, the historic landscape including hedgerows and other land boundaries, buildings of historical significance and towns and villages and industrial features.  Not all threats to, and opportunities for, the historic landscape relating to landuse change can be influenced through the planning system. This guidance explains the significance of archaeology and the historic environment.  It also examines the processes and procedures necessary to ensure that a sustainable approach to management of the historic environment is adopted.