6. Pre-construction Geophysical and Geotechnical Surveys

55. Pre-construction geophysical and geotechnical work is anticipated within the Proposed Development. Archaeological input into survey specifications will be obtained to secure specialist advice on methods to investigate areas of archaeological potential and avoid impacts on known heritage assets.

6.1.2.    Health and Safety

56. Health and Safety considerations are of paramount importance in conducting all fieldwork in relation to the archaeological mitigation outlined in this Outline WSI and PAD. Safe working practices will always override archaeological considerations. All work must be carried out in accordance with the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974, the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 the Federation of Archaeological Managers and Employers health and safety manual (Health and Safety in Field Archaeology Federation of Archaeological Managers and Employers 2010) and all other relevant and contemporary Health and Safety legislation, regulations and codes of practice that apply at the time the works take place.
57. The RA will ensure that any Method Statements prepared to meet the requirements of the WSI are compliant with the requirements of the Applicant‘s Health and Safety Plans.

6.2. Planning

58. When planning geophysical and geotechnical surveys the Applicant will advise the RA (or RPS supported by MSDS Marine if pre-submission) well in advance of the survey planning to secure specialist input into the scope of works.
59. The RA will advise on measures to optimise archaeological results from the geotechnical and geophysical surveys. Areas to be considered will include:

• the available details on previously identified sites and/or anomalies and areas of heightened archaeological potential;
• the archaeological potential of areas where no existing sites and/or anomalies are yet known;
• the equipment, equipment settings, survey methodologies and data collection points that will optimise the recovery of archaeological information; and
• the requirements for data analysis, interpretation and archiving.
  60. The advice from the RA may also include:
• altering vibrocore/borehole positions to maximise the potential for the collection of archaeological data and/or;
• altering grab sample positions to maximise the potential for the collection of archaeological data.
  61. The results of the surveys will be used to inform the final positioning of wind turbines and other infrastructure. Where a direct impact on a heritage asset is likely to occur, any anomalies identified will be subject to further investigation to determine whether they represent archaeology. In situations where such investigation suggests an archaeological origin, the anomalies in question will be subject to formal AEZs. The Applicant will consult the RA in advance of the finalisation of the wind turbine and infrastructure positions to ensure that known archaeological constraints identified by these surveys are avoided.
  62. A detailed Method Statement will be produced by the RA in advance of each geophysical and geotechnical survey. Approval by the Archaeological Contractor will be assumed if no response is received within 30 days of submission of each individual Method Statement.
  63. The Method Statements produced will be in accordance with the clauses set out in the ‘Model Clauses for Archaeological Written Schemes of Investigation’ (The Crown Estate 2010).

6.3. Geophysical Survey

64. New geophysical data obtained for areas where direct impacts are anticipated will undergo analysis by a suitably qualified Archaeological Geophysical Contractor.
65. Survey data may be collected to inform potential modifications to an AEZ that has been implemented to protect identified sites and/or anomalies of interest (see section 8). In this instance the collection of such data will be supervised by a suitably qualified Archaeological Geophysical specialist who would be present on the survey vessel to ensure the quality of these data.

6.3.2.    Survey Specifications

66. The following specifications are based on the ‘Historic Environment Guidance for the Offshore Renewable Sector’ (COWRIE, 2007) and ‘Marine Geophysics Data Acquisition, Processing and Interpretation Guidance Notes’ (Historic England, 2013):

• Surveys will be carried out to a single datum and co-ordinate system. All survey data, including navigation, (position, heading and velocity) will be acquired digitally in industry-standard formats. Care will be taken to maintain the orientation and attitude of sensors online. Track-plots will be corrected for layback (including catenary effects) and made available in digital, Geographic Information System (GIS) form.
• A Sidescan Sonar Survey (SSS) will be carried out at frequency, range and gain settings capable of resolving all objects that are 0.5 m and above throughout the survey area. Preferably, line spacing will be equal to or less then the effective range and no more than 1.75 times the effective range. Anomalies of apparent archaeological potential will be ‘boxed’ by at least two and preferably four lines along and across the principal axis of the anomaly. These lines will be offset so that the anomaly does not lie immediately beneath the survey fish and run at optimal frequency and range settings for imaging the anomaly. SSS data will be made available to the interpreting archaeologist in the form of raw, un-mosaic files in a suitable proprietary format.
• A sub-bottom survey (seismic) will be carried out using a source capable of resolving internal structures to the full depth of impact from the Proposed Development within Quaternary deposits. Line and cross-line spacing, and orientations will be sufficient to resolve the extents and characteristics of the principal Quaternary deposits. A single beam echosounder will be run in conjunction with the sub-bottom survey; the first reflector (seabed) will be levelled with reference to a tide gauge. Sub-bottom data will be made available in a suitable proprietary format.
• A Magnetometer Survey will be carried out using a caesium gas or equivalent system capable of resolving anomalies of 5 nT and above. Lines can be run in conjunction with other sensors (i.e., on the same line spacing and orientation) but provision will be made to run additional lines and cross-lines in areas of apparent archaeological potential, as indicated by the desk-based information or any of the other sensors. Magnetometer data will be made available as cleaned, de-spiked and tidally corrected text (x, y and z) files for each line, including layback.

• Where a multi-beam survey (Multibeam Echo Sounder (MBES)) is to be carried out solely for archaeological purposes then a system capable of achieving an effective cell/bin size better than 1 m is preferred. Use of a beam-forming system is preferred. The entire survey area will be ensonified. Where an anomaly of apparent archaeological potential is identified, an additional single slow pass will be carried out at the highest possible ping rate. Single beam and multi-beam data will be made available as de-spiked and tidally-corrected text (x, y and z) files for each line, in addition to any gridded/rendered surfaces.
  67. Geophysical surveys may be required for a number of purposes and may be to a lower specification than is generally required to be optimum for archaeological surveying purposes as identified above. If a lower specification is proposed, then it is important that early consultation is undertaken with the RA to allow scope for additional lines of survey in order to fully understand the nature and extent of anomalies identified.
  68. If an UXO survey is conducted the magnetometer dataset will be subject to archaeological analysis in order to clarify the nature and extent of the known sites and anomalies and to identify as yet unknown buried sites.

6.3.3.    Interpretation

69. Once the surveys have been processed to meet their primary objectives, the survey data, together with factual reports will be made available in digital formats to the RA or a suitably qualified Archaeological Contractor for archaeological analysis and interpretation.
70. Archaeological interpretation will include:

• examination of SSS, Magnetometer, MBES and Seismic data for areas within the vicinity of known wreck sites and previously identified archaeological anomalies;
• examination of SSS, Magnetometer, MBES and seismic data within areas that will be subject to direct impacts from the Proposed Development to identify any unknown wreck remains;
• the assessment of seismic data to plot the general trend of the sub-surface sediments with archaeological potential; and
• further detailed interpretation of seismic data following the initial assessment within those areas that will be subject to impacts from the Proposed Development.
  71. The archaeological results of any further geophysical survey will be compiled as a report by the RA or the Archaeological Contractor (if different to the RA) and will include likely requirements (if any) for further archaeological work. The report will be submitted to the Applicant by the RA and then on to the Archaeological Contractor for approval. The scope of any further work will be agreed between the Applicant (through the RA) and the Archaeological Curator. The work may be used to inform the final design.

6.4. Geotechnical Surveys

72. Geotechnical data assessment will be subject to a staged programme of assessment and analysis by a suitably qualified Archaeological Geotechnical Contractor. Early planning and liaison with the Archaeological Geotechnical Contractor to enable the archaeological recording of intact cores will be a key requirement of this dataset.
73. The stages are based on the ‘Historic Environment Guidance for the Offshore Renewable Sector’ (COWRIE 2007). Each stage of this phased assessment of the cores is subject to the results of the preceding stages:

• Stage 1: Archaeological Assessment of geotechnical logs by a competent geoarchaeologist upon completion of the geotechnical investigations. This will provide an overview of the sedimentary sequence within the area, including whether any organic material is present and whether there are homogenous sedimentary layers throughout the area.
• Stage 2: Geoarchaeological recording of geotechnical cores identified in Stage 1 if the Stage 1 assessment identifies horizons of archaeological potential. This will entail the detailed recording of the sediments within selected cores for a range of palaeo-environmental indicators and dating material. The geotechnical cores need to be retained until the selection for archaeological recording has been made. Ideally one undisturbed half of each core is required for archaeological recording. The assessment programme will comprise the longitudinal splitting of each core section, the cleaning of half of each section and the detailed archaeological recording of each section, noting sediment colour, sediment type, sedimentary architecture and inclusions. A Stage 2 outline report will present the results of the archaeological recording and will indicate whether a Stage 3 laboratory assessment of the cores is warranted. The scope of further work will be agreed by the Applicant (via the RA) and the Archaeological Curator. If no further work is recommended a final (Stage 5) report will be produced by the geoarchaeological contractor.
• Stage 3: Geoarchaeological Assessment of selected cores identified during the Stage 2 recording as warranting further laboratory assessment. Stage 3 will comprise the sampling and laboratory assessment to a level sufficient to enable an assessment of the value of the palaeo-environmental material (pollen, diatoms, ostracods and foraminifera) surviving within the cores along with sampling for Radiocarbon (C14) and/or Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) dating purposes. The assessment seeks to further establish the preservation, diversity and quantity of palaeo-environmental material to further refine the interpretation of the sedimentary sequence. A Stage 3 outline report will present the results and will indicate wither further (Stage 4) analysis of samples is required. The scope of further work will be agreed by the Applicant (via the RA) and the Archaeological Curator. If no further work is recommended a final (Stage 5) report will be produced by the geoarchaeological contractor.
• Stage 4: Geoarchaeological analysis of the core material. It typically involves the full counts and analysis of pollen, diatom, ostracod and foraminifera samples and will be supported by C14 dating of suitable sub-samples. This phase will result in an account of the successive environments within the coring area, a model of environmental change over time and an outline of the archaeological implications of the analysis. It will include the incorporation of the results into a model of the seabed sediments and palaeo-topography based on the analysis of the seismic data. If a full seismic analysis has not been undertaken prior to this point it will be required.
• Stage 5: A final report will be prepared by the Geoarchaeological Contractor at the end of the last stage of works. This will include a synthesis of all aspects of the palaeo-topography, geoarchaeology and prehistory of the area affected by the Proposed Development. This will be based on the results of the archaeological work carried out in support of the application in addition to the pre-construction surveys. It may include relevant data generated from the Marine Archaeology Technical Report, geophysical surveys and particularly seismic data. The report will incorporate appropriate 2D and 3D illustration of the sediment sequences identified in different parts of the development zone. This will include a geoarchaeological deposit model but will also include plans and sections of areas where more detailed analysis has been possible. The RA will submit the report to the Applicant and the Archaeological Contractor for approval.

6.5. Provisional Programme

74. A programme of future geophysical and geotechnical surveys is planned in connection with the Proposed Development. The anticipated timeframes for completed and planned survey works are outlined in Table 6.1   Open ▸ below:

Table 6.1: Overview of Pre-Application and Pre-Development Offshore Geophysical and Geotechnical Survey for the Proposed Development

7. Pre-Construction Remotely Operated Vehicle and/or Diver Surveys

7.1. Non-Archaeological Remotely Operated Vehicle and/or Diver Surveys

75. To maximise the benefit of any non-archaeological surveys, archaeological input from the RA will be sought at the planning stage. Any survey specifications will be informed by findings from previous stages of the Proposed Development so that archaeological considerations can be taken into account.
76. Advice from the RA will include:

• the available details of sites and/or anomalies identified in the Marine Archaeology Technical Report;
• the archaeological potential of areas where no existing sites and/or anomalies are yet known;
• the type and level of diver/ROV positioning, voice recording and video/still recording to be utilised; and
• the type of sites and finds to be reported and recorded.
  77. However, where non-archaeological surveys do not provide clear results, additional archaeological diver/ROV surveys may be required (see Section 7.2 below).
  78. Video and positional data not acquired by archaeological survey (for example, that collected within the proposed development by diver, ROV obstruction or UXO surveys) should be subject to Archaeological assessment. Typically, this is appropriate for sites subject to AEZs for which the avoidance of direct impacts is not possible. However, this measure is particularly relevant for UXO/boulder clearance and for areas where there are survey gaps.
  79. The Applicant will consider provisions for a suitably qualified archaeologist to be present either as an observer or participating diver to optimise archaeological results and therefore reduce the need for repeat surveys.

7.2. Archaeological Remotely Operated Vehicle and/or Diver Surveys

80. Archaeological Diver/ROV surveys can be employed to gather archaeological data concerning wreck sites for archaeological anomalies to safeguard the archaeological record.
81. For sites subject to AEZs, for which the avoidance of direct impacts is not possible and non-archaeological surveys have not provided clear results, an archaeological diver and/or ROV survey will be commissioned by the RA (or a suitably qualified Archaeological Contractor)
82. Following the completion of the diver and/or ROV survey all data, including any video footage will be reviewed by the RA/Archaeological Contractor. This review will help to inform the potential for archaeological interest at relevant sites. Typically, this will involve the identification of vessel remains, rather than stray artefacts. A report will identify sites and/or geophysical anomalies of sufficient archaeological interest to warrant further investigation. It will also identify those sites that are no longer of archaeological interest and hence may be removed from the list of sites protected by AEZs.
83. The archaeological results of any diver/ROV survey will be compiled into a report by the RA/Archaeological Contractor (see section 14). The report will include a statement of the likely requirements (if any) for further archaeological work.
84. The report will be forwarded to the Applicant and the Archaeological Curator.

8. Archaeological Exclusion Zones

85. AEZs will be the principal means used to preserve, in-situ, any features, or deposits of potential or known archaeological interest. The AEZs listed in this document (see Figure 8.1   Open ▸ ).
86. Table 8.1   Open ▸ and Table 8.2   Open ▸ are based on a detailed archaeological review of marine geophysical data (see Marine Archaeology Technical Report for further details). AEZ’s for High Potential Archaeological Anomalies (identified wrecks) are presented in appendix D. Medium Potential Archaeological Anomalies are presented in appendix E.
87. Although the analysis of further geophysical data or ROV/diver surveys may allow the extent of the AEZ to be refined, it is unlikely that the AEZ would be removed altogether. The removal of an AEZ would only occur where anomalies can conclusively be shown to be non-anthropogenic in nature.
88. AEZs will apply to construction activities, vessel mooring and any other activities that may disturb the seabed during construction. AEZs would continue through the operation and maintenance and decommissioning phases unless survey data indicates an AEZ could be amended or removed.
89. The Applicant will ensure that the AEZs are marked on the Proposed Development’s master plans, including contract documents. The extent and selection of anomalies for protection by AEZs will be subject to review and revision during the lifetime of the Proposed Development as new data becomes available, as detailed below. Where possible, there will be no activities which affect the seabed within an AEZ.

8.1. AEZs in the Proposed Development array area and Proposed Development export cable corridor

90. Based on the archaeological and geophysical assessments conducted to date (see Marine Archaeology Technical Report), 36 AEZs are recommended to protect potential contacts of high and unconfirmed medium archaeological potential. These are illustrated in Figure 8.1   Open ▸ . Full details are included in Figure 8.1   Open ▸ .
91. Table 8.1   Open ▸ and Table 8.2   Open ▸ and appendix D, appendix E and appendix F.

8.2. Establishing New AEZs

92. If new finds of archaeological interest are made during construction, additional AEZs may be implemented to protect them. All finds of archaeological material will be reported to the RA and the Construction Contractor(s) in accordance with the PAD (see section 13 below). The RA will inform the Archaeological Contractor and Client of all reports.
93. All activities that may affect the seabed in the vicinity of any find will cease until archaeological advice has been sought and received and, if necessary, an archaeological inspection of the material and site has taken place.
94. The Archaeological Contractor will be consulted by the RA on the need for, and the design (position, extent) and implementation of any new AEZs.

8.3. Altering AEZs

95. AEZs may be altered (enlarged, reduced, moved or removed) commensurate to the results of future geophysical surveys and/or archaeological field evaluation. Archaeological field evaluation may include suitable high-resolution marine geophysical survey, and/or survey by diver or ROV.
96. The alteration of AEZs will only be undertaken following consultation and agreement with the Archaeological Curator. Following alteration, a new plan giving details of the revised AEZs will be drawn up for the Applicant by the RA and issued to its Construction Contractor(s) and onboard vessel representatives.

8.4. Monitoring AEZs

97. The Applicant will regularly supply the RA with vessel track plots and anchor spots to enable the RA to review the effectiveness of the 36 AEZs ( Figure 8.1   Open ▸ and appendix D, appendix E and appendix F). The frequency and timing of these reviews will be agreed with the Archaeological Contractor once the construction programme is known.
98. Should a breach of an AEZ be suspected this will be resolved by further investigation, which may include carrying out a geophysical survey or diver/ROV survey of the area thought to be affected.
99. On completion of the construction phase the RA will compile a report (see section 14) on the effectiveness of the AEZs, any alterations to them and the results of monitoring.

Figure 8.1: Distribution of Archaeological Exclusions Zones

Table 8.1: High Potential Archaeological Exclusion Zones

Table 8.2: Medium Potential Archaeological Exclusion Zones

9. Low Archaeological Potential Contacts

100. There are 208 anomalies within the Proposed Development site for which no archaeological significance has been interpreted from the archaeological analysis of the geophysical survey data. These sites have been identified as having low archaeological potential. These anomalies are listed in full in appendix C of the Marine Archaeology Technical Report and shown on Figure 9.1   Open ▸ .
101. No exclusion zones are recommended for these anomalies. Should material of potential archaeological significance be identified during pre-development and development works this will be reported through the agreed PAD (see section 13).

Figure 9.1: Distribution of Low Archaeological Potential Contacts

10. Temporary Archaeological Exclusion Zones

102. TAEZs are proposed to ensure the adequate protection of wrecks and obstructions within the Proposed Development export cable corridor, including those which are not located within the scope of the site-specific surveys (i.e. not within the GSA), but are identified in UKHO records.
103. The UKHO records seven wrecks or obstructions within the GSA that were not identified by the Geophysical Survey, but these records are identified by the UKHO as dead and are not attributed to visible remains on the seabed. The positions given for each of these records is approximate, or for filing purposes only, as such, it is highly likely that any wreck to which they may relate is not at the location of the record.
104. A further eight UKHO records were identified within the Proposed Development export cable corridor, but outside the GSA. Of these, three are ‘live wrecks’ and potentially indicative of material on the seabed at the given location. As such, TAEZs are recommended for these three ‘live wrecks’ sites. The UKHO records and the recommended TAEZs are detailed in Table 10.1   Open ▸ and appendix F.
105. The TAEZs are based on all available information including the stated positional accuracy, the recorded size of the target and the potential archaeological significance as stated in the UKHO records.
106. A precautionary approach has been taken to determine the size of the TAEZs. When higher resolution and full coverage data becomes available, primarily through further surveys, the TAEZs will be adjusted to an appropriate size to ensure the contact is provided sufficiently robust mitigation. The TAEZs will remain in place until alterations have been formally agreed between the Applicant via the RA and the Archaeological Contractor.

Table 10.1: Temporary Archaeological Exclusion Zones

Figure 10.1: Distribution of Temporary Archaeological Exclusion Zones

11. Cable Route Clearance

107. Due to the nature of the proposed construction works, no archaeological monitoring is proposed for the offshore works. The exception to this would be if any clearance operations were undertaken relating to cable installation (including array, interconnector and offshore export cables) in order to remove obstructions. This is because techniques for clearing the cable route (e.g. pre-lay grapnel runs or trenching) have the potential to bring archaeological material to the surface. In this instance the RA (or an Archaeological Contractor) will be required to be in attendance on the work vessel during clearance.
108. All archaeological monitoring will be conducted in compliance with the standards outlined in the Chartered Institute for Archaeologist’s ‘Standard and Guidance for an Archaeological Watching Brief’ (CIFA 2014).
109. Archaeological features and deposits uncovered during the course of the watching brief will be recorded to a single datum and co-ordinate system. Suitable time will be allowed, and resources made available within the construction programme for each such intervention.
110. Where construction works expose sites of potential archaeological importance, these sites will be reported to the Applicant by the RA. The RA (acting on behalf of the Applicant) will liaise with the Archaeological Contractor and a suitable level of recording will be determined. Following this, the Archaeological Contractor may require that the Applicant include contingencies within the construction programme for any archaeological excavation and recording as advised by the Archaeological Contractor
111. Sufficient time and resources will be made available to ensure the archaeological assessment of any archaeological material identified during seabed clearance. This assessment will take place as soon as possible after seabed clearance works, but not necessarily prior to cable laying unless the archaeological site concerned will be impacted by the cable laying. Such an assessment would serve as compensatory work to mitigate the damage to the archaeological site caused by seabed clearance.
112. The results of all archaeological monitoring will be compiled as a report (section 14).

12. Mitigation of Unavoidable Direct Impacts on Known sites

113. The mitigation strategy described in this document is predicated on the identification and avoidance of known archaeological remains. It is recognised that this may not always be possible, for example should an archaeological asset be identified at a late stage.
114. Options for the mitigation of unavoidable direct impacts on known sites of archaeological significance would include the following:

• preservation by record. This may involve geophysical survey, and/or diver and/or ROV surveys and in cases excavation and recording of known sites; and
• stabilisation. This may involve the reburial of remains.
  115. Detailed analysis and safeguarding of otherwise comparable sites elsewhere may also be a potential mitigation strategy. Particularly in situations where those affected by the proposed development are difficult to access.

13. Protocol for Archaeological Discoveries

116. A PAD will be implemented during all subtidal site preparation activities and construction activities. It will address the reporting of unexpected finds of archaeological material, recovered from the sea during site preparation and construction activities. More detailed information relating to the PAD is set out in appendix A so only a short summary is included here.
117. The responsibility for ensuring the implementation of the PAD (appendix A) rests with the Applicant who will ensure that its agents and Construction Contractors are contractually bound to implement the Protocol (appendix A).
118. The PAD will follow the format laid down in the ‘Protocol for Archaeological Discoveries: Round 3 Offshore Renewables Projects’ (The Crown Estate, 2014). An Implementation Service will operate to administer the PAD, provide initial advice to the Applicant and the team and liaise with the RA and Archaeological Contractor as necessary (appendix A).
119. Once agreed by the Applicant, MS-LOT and the Archaeological Curator, the PAD will be distributed in a form suitable for use on board construction vessels. The Applicant will ensure that the relevant staff on all construction vessels are informed of and have access to the PAD. The Implementation Service will provide supporting materials together with the PAD that detail the find types that may be of archaeological interest and the potential importance of any archaeological material encountered (appendix A).
120. A Preliminary Record Form will be made available (appendix C) to all vessel crews for completion on discovery of archaeological material.
121. All finds of archaeological material will be reported by the Construction Contractor(s), in accordance with the communication plan, to the Site Champion on their vessel (usually the senior person on the vessel), who then reports to the Nominated Contact (who has been nominated by the Applicant to co-ordinate implementation of the Protocol). The Nominated Contact will inform the Implementation Service that will, in turn, inform the Applicant/RA and the Archaeological Curator. If the find is a ‘wreck’ within the meaning of the Merchant Shipping Act 1995, then the Implementation Service will also make a report to the Receiver of Wreck. Full contact details for all relevant parties will be included in the PAD (appendix A).
122. The response to reported finds will be implemented through the measures set out in the PAD, including further surveys or establishment of new AEZs if appropriate (appendix A)
123. The PAD will be implemented by means of an initial visit by the Implementation Service to the relevant vessels to ensure that all staff are made aware of what constitutes an appropriate find, and through periodic reports by the Nominated Contact. The frequency and timing of these visits will be determined once the construction programme is known. The PAD will be supported by a package of ‘awareness training’ for the Applicant and its Construction Contractors and Construction sub-contractor’s staff (appendix A).
124. At the end of the construction phase, the Implementation Service will prepare a report on the results of the PAD. The results will be included in the final Archaeological Report in the section covering maritime sites and finds within the area affected by the Proposed Development (see section 14).

13.1. Approach to Finds

125. Any finds and environmental samples will be processed according to professional standards for finds analysis, environmental sampling and archive preparation and in accordance with the Chartered Institute for Archaeologist’s ‘Standards and Guidance for the collection, documentation, conservation and research of archaeological materials’ (CIfA 2015) and the ‘Standards and Guidance for nautical archaeological recording and reconstruction (CIfA 2014d).
126. Finds and other items of archaeological interest recovered during offshore investigations are the property of The Crown Estate Scotland (as the landowner) except for items that are ‘treasure’ for the purposes of the Treasure Act 1996 or ‘wreck’ for the purposes of the Merchant Shipping Act 1995. From the point of discovery all finds will be held by the Archaeological Contractor/RA in appropriate conditions pending further recording, investigation, study or conservation. Ownership will be transferred to the institution receiving the archive unless other arrangements are agreed with the Archaeological Curator.

13.1.2.              Discovery of Artefacts

127. Objects relating to human exploitation of the area that are exposed by Proposed Development activities will be recovered by the Archaeological Contractor or, where recovery is impractical, recorded. All finds will be recorded by context and significant objects (‘special finds’) in three dimensions using a sequence of unique numbers.
128. Subject to the agreement reached with a suitable museum regarding selection, retention and disposal of material, the Archaeological Contractor will retain all recovered objects unless they are undoubtedly of modern or recent origin. The presence of modern objects will, however, be noted on context records. In these circumstances, sufficient material will be retained to elucidate the date and function of the deposit from which it was recovered.
129. All finds and seabed deposits will be recorded using a pro forma recording system, and a running matrix of assigned contexts will be maintained. Where finds are discovered onboard the vessel, approximate positions will be assigned for where the artefacts were recovered. A full photographic record will be maintained using video and digital stills photography. The photographic record will illustrate both the detail and the general context of the principal features, finds excavated and the site as a whole.
130. Specialist work approved by the Archaeological Contractor on metal work, bone (including worked bone, human remains and other organic remains), industrial waste, ceramic material, glass and lithic material will be caried out by a suitable Archaeological Contractors, monitored by the RA.
131. In consultation with the Applicant and the Archaeological Curator, the RA will advise on the implementation of passive conservation for smaller objects pending more detailed conservation strategies. The Applicant will make provision for a professional conservator to undertake a conservation assessment of assemblages normally through the RA.
132. In the event of the discovery of unexpected, unusual or extremely fragile and delicate objects and deposits, the RA, the Applicant and the Archaeological Contractor will be notified immediately. Additional work required to recover, record, analyse, conserve and archive such objects and deposits will be agreed with the Archaeological Curator.
133. In the event of the discovery of items that may be eligible for legal protection, the Contractor will notify the RA who will notify the relevant legal authority as soon as is possible. The Applicant and the Archaeological Contractor will be notified as soon as is possible.
134. Objects that require immediate conservation treatment to prevent deterioration will be treated according to guidelines laid down in First Aid for Finds (Watkinson 1998) and First Aid for Underwater Finds (Robinson,1998). A full record will be made of any treatment given.

13.1.3.              Discovery of Aircraft Wrecks

135. The majority of aircraft wrecks are military and so fall under the legal protection of the Protection of Military Remains Act 1986. The RA should refer to guidance outlined in:

• Historic Environment Guidance for the Offshore Renewable Energy Sector (COWRIE/Wessex Archaeology, 2007)
• Protocol for Archaeological Discoveries: Offshore Renewables Sector (Wessex Archaeology, 2014)
• Military Aircraft Crash Sites: Archaeological guidance on their significance and future management (Historic England, 2002)
  136. Any finds suspected of being military aircraft will be reported immediately to the RA. The Applicant will be informed as well as the Service Personnel and Veterans Agency (SPVA: Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre – SO3 Historic Casualty Casework). Any subsequent actions will be guided by ‘Crashed Military Aircraft of Historic Interest: Licencing of Excavations in the UK - Guidance Notes for Recovery Groups’ (Ministry of Defence (MOD) and SPVA 2011) (the ‘Guidance Notes’) and by advice received from SPVA. In the case of a military aircraft being investigated under licence, any human remains will be reported immediately in accordance with paragraph 15 of the Guidance Notes, to the MOD and the local police and, through them, the local coroner.

13.1.4.              Discovery of Treasure

137. In the event of the discovery of any material covered or potentially covered by the Treasure Act 1996, the Applicant and Archaeological Contractor will be notified immediately. All necessary information required by the Treasure Act 1996 (i.e. finder, location, material, date, associated items, etc.) will be reported to the coroner within 14 days. Items falling under the Treasure Act 1996 will be recovered by the RA/Archaeological Contractor and stored in a secure location, pending a decision from the coroner.

13.1.5.              Discovery of Wreck

138. Archaeological artefacts that have come from a ship are ‘wreck’ for the purposes of the Merchant Shipping Act 1995. The Applicant should ensure that the ROW is notified within 28 days of recovery.

13.2. Environmental

139. For each programme of archaeological work, environmental sampling strategies and methods including methods for processing, assessing and/or analysing samples – will be set out in the Method Statement for the archaeological work.
140. Approaches and methods will be consistent with Environmental Archaeology: a guide to the theory and practise of methods, from sampling and recovery to post excavation (Historic England, 2011).

13.3. Conservation and Storage

141. All recovered materials will be subject to a Conservation Assessment to consider whether special measures are required while the material is being held. This assessment will be carried out by the RA/Archaeological Contractor. If no special measures are required finds will be conserved, bagged, boxed and stored in accordance with industry guidelines (CIfA, 2014: Standard and Guidance for the Collection, Storage, documentation, conservation and research of archaeological materials).