What was Archaeology like in the Past

[Wax]

So am I right in thinking that before PPG 16 archaeology was not an automatic consideration in the planning process and that work infront of development was dependant on a team willing to have a go and funding from the DOE or other sources? I was around in the 1970 s but was not an archaeologist however I remember hanging out for a couple of days with friends who were volunteers on the excavation of a Saxon burial ground, this had well preserved skeletons with burial goods. The friends excavating it were local sixth formers doing A level history the site director was a professional archaeologist but the the bulk of the team were very inexperienced. The work was in advance of a major road scheme which removed half a hillside. I have no idea who was funding the excavation but suspect it was done on a shoe string.

I do in fact believe totally in inclusive community archaeology but as an adjunct to the professional work that needs to be carried out in advance of development. All of us Commercial, Academic and Amateur need to work within a clearly structured and monitored system. Volunteer archaeology and work creation schemes should be a supplement never a replacement for the professional work required for development control.

Talk to some of the older digger drivers who were around before PPG and listen to the tales of the archaeology that was ripped out in the hearts of our towns without anyone noticing or caring.