Archaeology and the Coast

Changes taking place around the UK coastline have long been identified as having an impact on the archaeological resource. Coastal erosion, deposition and the movement of sediments around the coast influence the survival of the archaeological resource within the inter-tidal zone and along the coastal littoral.

English Heritage advises government on the implications of coastal zone management and coastal defence policy on the historic environment at a strategic and scheme specific level. We have also published a statement on the integration of historic environment considerations within shoreline management planning and the treatment of historic assets in managed realignment schemes.  We also commission research intended to improve understanding and conservation of historic remains in the coastal zone.  Archaeological aerial survey has been recognised as an important means of recording archaeological sites and landscapes in the coastal zone.  This data usually complements the findings of field based research.

The results from the National Mapping Programme (NMP) primarily help to characterise the archaeology on the coast visible from the air.  A predominant theme to emerge from East Anglia is the density and complexity of the, mainly World War II, coastal defences and a publication on the defences of Suffolk will be published later in the year.  The Rapid Coastal Zone Assessment Survey (RCZAS) projects also look at the contextual area in the hinterland along the coast which helps to inform local planning decisions.

For further information on a project or any other aspect of the work of the Aerial Survey team please contact us at: AerialSurvey@english-heritage.org.uk.