Archaeological Investigations | Fieldwork & Planning Support

At Arthian, we deliver tailored archaeological investigations that support planning compliance, satisfy legal conditions and protect the historic environment. Working across England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland, our fieldwork services help clients meet archaeological requirements efficiently and proportionately—without compromising quality or timelines. 

Our team liaises directly with local authorities, contractors and sub-consultants to secure practical, cost-effective solutions that align with planning conditions. We advise on methods, budgets and delivery schedules, ensuring each investigation is scoped realistically and competitively. 

We prepare Archaeology Written Schemes of Investigation (WSIs) based on agreed project terms for submission to the planning authority and manage delivery from supervision to archiving. 

Field Investigation Methods 

We offer a full suite of archaeological fieldwork techniques, adapted to project scale, site sensitivity and planning requirements. 

Our capabilities include: 

• Preliminary site investigation monitoring 
• Watching briefs 
• Archaeological evaluation (e.g. trial trenching)
• Strip, map and sample excavation 
• Full excavation 
• Physical preservation in situ 
• Archaeo-environmental sampling and analysis 

During works, our consultants supervise field teams and attend monitoring visits from planning authorities. On completion, we provide planning-compliant reporting for discharge of conditions or legal consents, and arrange for archiving of project material in accordance with national standards. 

Why Choose Arthian 

• Experience liaising with local authorities and contractors
• WSIs tailored to national and devolved planning frameworks 
• Cost-effective fieldwork solutions grounded in planning realities
• Consistent supervision and quality control throughout investigations
• Coverage across England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland 

Frequently Asked Questions 

• What is a Written Scheme of Investigation (WSI)? A WSI is a formal method statement outlining how archaeological work will be conducted, submitted to the planning authority as part of fulfilling conditions or legal consent. 
•  Do I need a watching brief or full excavation? This depends on site potential, planning conditions, and risk factors. Our consultants help determine the most appropriate and proportionate method. 
•  Can you help manage investigation costs? Yes—our team negotiates fieldwork scope, timelines and methodology with stakeholders to ensure competitive pricing and avoid unnecessary delays. 
•  What happens after fieldwork is complete? We deliver reports for discharge of conditions and archive records to regional repositories. We also coordinate with local authorities for sign-off and planning release.