Areas of archaeological potential

The policy context

The application of Areas of Archaeological Potential is framed in the Strategic Planning Policy Statement for Northern Ireland. Strategic Policy 6.29, bullet point 2 articulates that

“LDPs (Local Development Plans) should also highlight for the benefit of prospective developers, those areas within settlement limits, where on the basis of current knowledge it is likely that archaeological remains may be encountered during the course of continuing development and change. These will be referred to as areas of archaeological potential”. 

Identifying areas of archaeological potential

Using evidence from the Historic Environment Record of Northern Ireland (HERoNI) Historic Environment Division have identified such locations across Northern Ireland. Many of these have been identified through the work carried out as part of the compilation of the Gazetteer of Historic Nucleated and Urban Settlements. In such cases the identified area will generally focus on the nucleated pattern of settlement articulated on the first edition Ordnance survey map. It will highlight the historic core areas, within settlement limits wherein there is potential to encounter archaeological information about the evolution of that place. 

In some other instances areas may be identified due to the presence of a specific known archaeological asset within the settlement limit, whose remains may be considered to be of sufficient significance to warrant identification as an AAP. 

Areas of archaeological potential and planning

Areas of Archaeological Potential can be highlighted in Local Development Plans. Upon consultation in respect of applications within such highlighted areas, HED will consider on a case by case basis the likelihood of encountering archaeological remains and provide advice to planning authorities as appropriate.