A heritage and archaeology consultant is a professional who holds competence in both built heritage assessment and below-ground archaeological assessment - disciplines that are closely related but are often treated separately by different specialists. For complex development projects affecting both standing historic buildings and buried archaeological deposits, a consultant with dual competence provides a more coherent and efficient service, reducing the risk of contradictions between heritage and archaeological sections of an Environmental Statement or planning application.
What they do
- Prepare combined heritage and archaeological assessments for planning
- Write integrated EIA heritage and archaeology chapters
- Assess development impact on both listed buildings and buried remains
- Carry out NPPF setting assessments for all heritage asset types
- Advise on World Heritage Site buffer zone development
- Manage combined condition discharge for heritage and archaeological conditions
- Liaise with Historic England and local authority archaeologists
- Provide expert witness evidence on combined heritage impacts
When you need one
A combined heritage and archaeology consultant is most valuable for complex sites where both built heritage and buried archaeology are significant constraints.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| Service | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Combined heritage and archaeological assessment | £800 - £3,000 |
| EIA heritage chapter (combined) | £2,000 - £8,000 |
| Condition discharge evidence | £600 - £1,500 |
| Historic England pre-application advice support | £800 - £2,000 |
| Expert witness combined report | £1,000 - £3,500 |
| Hourly rate | £70 - £120 / hr |
A combined commission typically costs less than two separate specialist appointments covering the same ground. The saving in coordination time and reduced risk of contradictory advice is an additional benefit for complex projects.
Qualifications to look for
A heritage and archaeology consultant should ideally hold both CIfA chartered archaeologist status and IHBC membership, or be able to demonstrate equivalent competence across both disciplines through their project portfolio.
Some chartered town planners (MRTPI) develop dual competence in heritage and archaeological planning advice, particularly in consultancies that work across EIA and heritage projects.
Frequently asked questions
When should one consultant cover both heritage and archaeology?
For large or complex developments affecting both standing buildings and potential buried archaeology, a consultant qualified in both disciplines - or a team combining both - provides better coordinated advice and reduces the risk of conflicting recommendations from separate specialists.
What is the difference between a Listed Building and an archaeological site?
A Listed Building is a standing structure of architectural or historic interest protected under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990. An archaeological site typically contains buried remains protected under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979. The two designations can overlap - a listed building may also contain important buried archaeology in its foundations.
What is the setting of a heritage asset and why does it matter?
The setting is the surroundings in which a heritage asset is experienced. Development within the setting of a heritage asset can harm its significance even if the development does not touch the asset itself. NPPF policies require this impact to be assessed for both built heritage assets and archaeological sites.