Trial Trenching & Watching Briefs

Trial Trenching

Trial trenching is an intrusive archaeological evaluation technique where sample trenches are excavated, usually by machine, to determine the presence, significance, and extent of buried archaeological remains before development. The trenches are usually placed within the footprint of the area to be excavated but can be selected where features are suspected. The findings of the trial trenching may lead to a more significant archaeological dig which will have to be carried out by a larger commercial unit.

Loughton Hall, Loughton

St Marys, Stebbing - Drains

St Marys, Stapleford Abbots

William Edwards School, Standford Rivers

St Osyth Church

St Giles, Cambridgeshire

Old Bakehouse, Debden Green

6 Well Lane, Stock -Trial Trench

Watching Briefs

Watching Briefs are carried out as the work progresses – digging foundations, drains or cable runs, or stripping buildings to reveal fabric. An archaeological watching brief is a formal, monitored observation of features revealed during work by a qualified archaeologist. It ensures that any unexpected archaeological remains are identified, recorded, and protected, allowing development to proceed with minimal disruption while preserving heritage by record.

Lower Farm, Lawford

Please get in touch if you require Trail Trenching or a Watching Brief for your project.