Archaeology and Development within Stoke-on-Trent

Protection of Stoke-on-Trent’s archaeology is undertaken within the planning process. In line with advice from central government, Stoke-on-Trent City Council makes use of local and national policies to protect its archaeological sites and to ensure that archaeological remains are not destroyed without a detailed record first being made of them.

All applications for planning permission are assessed by the City’s Archaeology Service for their impact upon archaeological remains. These remains include not only buried sites, but also standing buildings which may have local or regional significance or contribute to the character of an area. This assessment may be informed by data contained in the City’s Sites and Monuments Record, the evidence of historic maps and other historical sources, as well as by local knowledge.

Where a possible impact upon archaeological remains is identified, recommendations are made to the Local Planning Authority to ensure their preservation. Further information may be required to enable an informed determination of the application to be made (desk-based assessment or archaeological evaluation), or a programme of archaeological work may be required as a condition of consent (archaeological excavation, archaeological watching brief or archaeological buildings recording). The minimum standard acceptable to the City Council is preservation by record, but in cases where significant remains are threatened an application may be refused.

You can follow the link to access a downloadable version of the Archaeology Service leaflet Archaeology and Development in Stoke-on-Trent. Advice is also available from the City’s Senior Archaeologist, David Barker, on 01782 232589 (email: david.barker@stoke.gov.uk) or Assistant Archaeologist, Noel Boothroyd, on 01782 232597 (email: noel.boothroyd@stoke.gov.uk).