Prehistory, Playhouses and the Public: London's Planning Archaeology

Adam Single,L E C Davies

doi:10.11141/ia.57.10

Abstract

Three recent examples of public benefit following archaeological discoveries in London are presented, alongside an explanation of the policy context that supports them. The examples are provided from the perspective of planning archaeologists, who advise decision makers and developers on managing archaeological sites in compliance with local and national policy. The cases illustrate ad hoc public benefits secured following surprise discoveries at an excavation in Tottenham, as well as long-term benefits resulting from staged investigation and negotiation of two Elizabethan playhouses in Shoreditch and Aldgate. We discuss issues around encouraging and operating permanent visitor attractions and how to best secure the benefits deriving from those places through the UK planning system. We suggest some ways for this young field to develop further.

Highlights

Introduction to the Greater London ArchaeologicalAdvice Service (GLAAS) and the Policy ContextAs planning archaeologists at the Greater London Archaeological Advisory Service, we work to create different types of public benefit from commercial archaeological projects
The following will highlight some of the ways in which we can secure public benefit, and give some high profile examples of archaeological projects in London that are resulting in permanent cultural benefits, as well as gains for the heritage involved
At the most basic level, public benefit is integrated into Greater London ArchaeologicalAdvice Service (GLAAS)' day-to-day advice within the wording of our standard planning condition, which states that an approved written scheme of investigation for archaeological fieldwork must include:

Summary

Three recent examples of public benefit following archaeological discoveries in London are presented, alongside an explanation of the policy context that supports them. Recent changes in national and regional public policy in the UK, as well as specific government initiatives resulting from those, have emphasised the aim of securing clear public benefit as an outcome of decision making. These changes include new national laws such as the Public Service (Social Value) Act, 2012, policy updates such as the 2015 government adoption of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, as well as more locally focused measures such as the Mayor of London's emerging London Plan. The following will highlight some of the ways in which we can secure public benefit, and give some high profile examples of archaeological projects in London that are resulting in permanent cultural benefits, as well as gains for the heritage involved

Standard planning condition

Bespoke planning condition

Section 106 agreement

Ad hoc arrangements

Two Playhouses

Conclusion