Archaeological remains are vital evidence of our past history. They are, however, highly vulnerable to damage and destruction and if lost can never be replaced.
Local Authorities have key responsibilities for the protection and recording of sites and monuments, as set out in Planning Policy Guidance 16 - Archaeology and Planning. The desirability of preserving an ancient monument or its setting is a material consideration in determining planning applications, whether the monument is scheduled or not.
The Council has no in-house capacity for archaeological work and does not employ an Archaeolgist. However, the Bury Council jointly supports the posts of County and Assistant County Archaeologist at the Greater Manchester Archaeological Unit (GMAU) and relies upon its service for all archaeological advice. GMAU maintains a database, the 'Sites and Monuments Record' of all known archaeological sites in the Borough. The database contains chance finds, burial remains, historic buildings, parks and gardens and industrial monuments.
Four sites have been designated as Scheduled Ancient Monuments in the Borough of Bury, and a wealth of evidence about the Borough's archaeolgoy has been identified in studies carried out by GMAU.
The Sites and Monuments Record for Bury includes approximately 1,300 identified archaeological sites. These vary greatly in importance and character. Many sites are poorly understood through lack of research. It is essential that appropriate consultations take place when these sites are affected by development and the appropriate action taken to preserve or record the archaeological evidence. Consequently, priority will be given to establishing more complete records that can be referred to in dealing with applications, including use of the available information technology.
The Borough also has a wealth of industrial archaeology sites which are in need of investigation and recording. Industrial buildings are under represented on the statutory lists and their importance may easily be overlooked.
Useful Websites
Greater Manchester Archaeological Unit (GMAU)
Communities and Local Government - information on Archaeology and Planning
