Historic Environment Records: unlocking the potential

What are Historic Environment Records (HERs)? The most complete record of known archaeological and historic sites in their respective counties Planning guidance states that local planning authorities should have access to an HER Contain information on sites from the Palaeolithic era through to the 20th century

Buried archaeological remains

Earthworks and cropmarks

Designated heritage assets http://www.historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/

Non-designated heritage assets

Conservation Areas and Locally Listed Buildings

Designed historic landscapes

Findspots

Artefact/flint scatters

Heritage Gateway website www.heritagegateway.org.uk

Archaeological events HERs also hold a grey literature library of reports containing detailed information on archaeological events in the county Largely as a result of the planning process, but also includes research projects from local societies and universities

Historic Landscape Characterisation HLC projects recognise that the landscape itself can be of historic importance, in addition to the historic features within it Interpreting and recording the historic character of a landscape is intended to allow the landscape itself to be managed and protected within the planning process

Why do HERs exist? A public resource for research, education and general interest An important planning tool, used by Development Control Archaeologists, and increasingly Conservation Officers, when monitoring planning applications Archaeological contractors and heritage consultants often use HERs for desk-based research

HERs aim to help protect and inform future management, and enjoyment, of the historic environment.

Distribution of parks and gardens on the Derbyshire HER

Contacting your local HER http://www.heritagegateway.org.uk/gateway/chr/default.aspx