WEST of SCOTLAND
ARCHAEOLOGYSERVICE
Annual Report of the West of Scotland Archaeology Service
2015/16
SummaryThis annual report covers the period from 1 April 2015 to 31 March 2016.
During the report period, the West of Scotland Archaeology Service dealt with 1792 new
casework items, 9 fewer than in the previous year, a statistically insignificant reduction of
0.5%. This continues the service’s successful shift to streamlining the treatment of
preliminary or supporting planning casework, allowing staff to deal with the increased numberof cases in planning and development casework which are found to raise historic
environment issues after detailed assessment.
Monitoring the weekly lists of planning applications received from the ten member Councils
and from the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority initiated 555 of the newwork items. Monitoring of the weekly lists is essential to ensure that applications which raisepotential archaeological issues which have not been fully dealt with at the pre-application
stage can be identified for follow-up work. From the weekly lists, and through direct referrals
from the planning officers within the member authorities, 866 new planning applications wereidentified as potentially raising archaeological issues, and a further 371 other items of new
casework were also dealt with or initiated.

New Casework 1 April 2015 to 31 March 2016
Council Area
Argyll & Bute
East Ayrshire
East Renfrewshire
Glasgow
North Ayrshire
Renfrewshire
South Ayrshire
South Lanarkshire
West Dunbartonshire
West LothianNational Park Authority
General/Multi-Council
Total

Total of New
Casework Items
305
170
81
135
133
109
139
272
87
208
151
2
1792

Weekly
lists
49
50
49
50
50
50
50
52
51
52
52

Planning
Applications
159
99
22
48
55
41
72
154
23
128
65

555

866

Other
97
21
10
37
28
18
17
66
13
28
34
2
371

The 2.3% drop in the number of new planning applications identified as potentially raisingarchaeological issues, at 866, was 20 fewer than in the previous year, but approximated tothe average of the numbers identified over the preceding five years. However, the proportionof new applications which proved to raise archaeological issues was sustained at a level
The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

1similar to that reported last year. In the report period, 413 applications, or 48% of the total
examined in detail required some form of intervention, a little higher proportion than in lastyear, and significantly higher than the 36% to 40% proportions recorded during the preceding
12 years. This increased proportion of cases which raise significant issues means that the
number of cases requiring archaeological intervention has continued at close to the record
high level reported last year.
It appears that this change in the proportion of cases assessed as raising significant
archaeological issues since 2014 is partly explained by the Service’s successful streamliningof the identification and assessment of planning applications, which has reduced the numberof precautionary casework referrals to the Service from non-archaeological staff within theCouncils.
This has been most pronounced in the Argyll and Bute Council area where, from part-way
through the previous reporting year and with the agreement of the Council’s Development
Management Manager, planning staff have been able to rely more heavily on the
Archaeology Service to monitor the weekly lists of planning applications to identify thoseraising potentially significant issues. There was an immediate reduction in the number ofapplications which were referred to the Service for assessment in detail and were
subsequently assessed as raising no substantive archaeological issues. This trend towards
more efficient identification of significant historic environment issues has continued, without
apparent loss of quality in decision making.
This closer partnership working, which has been made possible because of the online
availability of plans and documents through the eplanning system, has produced staff
efficiency benefits to both the Archaeology Service and the Council, and has increased the
speed of processing many planning applications in an archaeologically rich area while
complying with the Council’s historic environment policies. It is likely that similar proceduralchanges would benefit other member Councils provided that the eplanning system isaccessible for online document retrieval.
The localised variations in the number of planning applications which raised potential
archaeological impacts was generally in line with averages from preceding years, although
the slightly increasing upward trend in the more easterly member authorities may indicate asubtle “Edinburgh effect” on development pressure in areas closer to the capital.

Summary Table of Planning Applications 2010-2016
Nos. Identified for Comment
Argyll & Bute
East Ayrshire
East Renfrewshire
Glasgow
Inverclyde
North Ayrshire
Renfrewshire
South Ayrshire
South Lanarkshire
West Dunbartonshire
West LothianNational Park
Total

Nos. Raising Archaeological Issues

10/11 11/12 12/13 13/14 14/15 15/16 10/11 11/12 12/13 13/14 14/15 15/16
327 316 244 316 208 159
82
81
80
115
112
95
60
65
51
62
84
99
28
32
25
24
38
40
15
29
32
21
27
22
6
14
8
6
12
11
35
40
39
51
52
48
14
10
10
16
16
18
8
18
15
2
4
9
46
44
45
55
50
55
23
24
22
30
25
32
23
30
28
24
44
41
12
17
9
11
21
26
54
56
94 103 108
72
20
31
36
36
39
24
102 136 134 134 122 154
56
63
65
58
66
68
31
6
14
17
33
23
7
3
8
7
10
11
98
96
83
79 104 128
42
34
33
36
57
57
19
55
54
64
54
65
6
24
27
30
21
31
818 891 833 926 886 866
296
337
332
369
417
413

The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

2

In addition to casework items generated from weekly lists and planning applications, a further
371 items of other new work were initiated in the report period. Although the levels ofcaseload in individual categories have varied, the overall total is very close to that of theprevious reporting period. (See table below, figures for previous year in brackets).
Pre-application planning enquiries
Development Plan consultations
Permitted development enquiries
SRDP audits and other agri-environment matters
Other Archaeological Consultations
Historic Environment Record information management matters
General or SMR enquiries
Policy liaison matters
Other (includes items sent in error)
Total

118 (131)
3(5)
36 (39)75 (90)15 (28)82 (46)39 (21)
2
(6)
(1)
(0)
371 (366)

The overall level of work carried out in the other casework categories is similar to the highlevels of last year, but as usual exhibits considerable variation on a year-by-year basis. The
marked drop in referrals or requests for HER information and advice from agriculturaladvisers and forestry agents which was reported last year as resulting from changes to thegovernment’s implementation of EU agri-environment schemes has continued.
Pre-application enquiries continue to be an important area of casework, helping development
management staff in member councils to facilitate the speedy processing of planningapplications from applicants who have made such enquiries. Pre-application engagementwith the Service allows potential issues to be raised at an earlier stage, allowing possible
time delays and costs to be identified in advance, and potentially addressed before anapplication is submitted. This speeds up the processing of major applications, and may
remove the need to attach archaeological conditions to planning consents.
In addition to identifying and initiating new casework, the Service carried forward work on
348 planning application cases which had been initiated in previous years. This continuing
caseload largely consists of providing advice to developers and to Council planning staff on
the appropriate scale of fieldwork and reporting which is required to satisfy conditions onconsents which have been granted in earlier years. A further component of this role involves
monitoring fieldwork carried out by commercial archaeological organisations on behalf ofdevelopers. The level of this activity therefore constitutes a better measure of sustained
development activity than the number of planning applications lodged or consented. The
number of such cases carried forward in the latest reporting period was 85% of the
exceptionally high numbers recorded in each of the previous two years.
Because of the sustained increase in the planning application casework over the last few
years, limited staff time was available for updating the Historic Environment Record.
Nevertheless, during the reporting period 378 new site records were added to the Historic
Environment Record database, and amendments or additions were made to 189 existing site
records. The number of new sites added is returning to previous input levels, but fluctuates in
response to pressures of work in other casework areas.
During the reporting period the number of archaeological event records created again rose
dramatically, to 292, following the previous year’s 36% increase with a further 25% annual
growth. This rising trend is in line with the prediction made in last year’s annual report. This
category of work reflects the quantity of post-excavation analysis and reporting work done bycommercial archaeological contractors after archaeological fieldwork which has been
The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

3

initiated as a result of development management casework undertaken by the Archaeology
Service in previous years.
A total of 213 archive records were created, dropping slightly from the number created in
2014-15, but still 24% more than the number generated in 2013-14. The sustained increases
in the number of these records are a result of the increased levels of archaeological fieldwork
carried out in recent years and reported on in previous annual reports. It is likely that thistrend will continue as there were 184 recorded archaeological events (excavations, fieldsurveys, building recording surveys, watching briefs, desk based assessments, etc.) during
the report period, an increase of 13% on last year’s record total.
During the reporting period, the Service was consulted on, and contributed to thedevelopment of Scotland’s Archaeology Strategy, a national strategy for the historic
environment sector, which was published by Historic Environment Scotland on 2 September
2015.
During the reporting period, the Service assisted four PhD candidates with data for their
theses, and assisted or liaised with five local amateur archaeological or historical groups orindividuals throughout the WoSAS area in their researches or local heritage projects.

The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

4

1

Running the Service

1.1

The Service's Steering Group met four times during the year to consider various
matters in connection with the running of the Service. The Service’s Joint Committee
met on three occasions, on 24 September 2015, 5 November 2015, and on 17 March
2016.

1.2

The Service’s office relocation during the previous reporting period reduced theaccommodation costs by 40%, helping to reduce budgetary pressure on annual
running costs.

1.3

The balance in the Service's reserve account at year end stood at £100,013 (seeAppendix 2). The reduction in the level of financial reserves at the financial year end
was less than had been predicted because of a better than expected return from feeearning casework and because contingency spending was not needed.

1.4

The overall level of external income to the Service over the report period was slightly
higher than predicted. After the Service’s existing Access to Information and Charging
Policy was revised and approved by the Joint Committee in March 2015, income
generated from the commercial sector increased markedly, and a little above
predicted levels because of the continuing high rate of development management
casework. Over the reporting period, the Service received £14,200 for the provision ofarchaeological information and advice to developers and their agents.

1.5

As was reported last year, transitional payments from the national agencies for theprovision of agri-environment advice and information were phased out, with anagreement that any fees to the Council archaeological services for providing thisinformation and advice could be recouped from the overall fees paid to the forestry
agents. Despite re-issued guidance from the Forestry Authority, there has been no
uptake from forestry agents for this service. Although some agents continue to invite
comments on their clients’ proposals, where the commensurate fee for undertaking
the work has been declined, any such consultations have been treated as unresourced work, and have been removed from our priority work-load lists.

1.6

Against expectations, last year’s record increase in the proportion of planningapplications which were assessed as raising archaeological issues has beensustained at the same level. It now seems likely that this is a result of the Service’s
successful and award-winning streamlined system of identifying and assessing
planning applications, which has reduced the number of precautionary casework
referrals to the Service from non-archaeological staff within the Councils, and has
reduced the number of “no issue” responses that have had to be returned.

1.7

The sustained high yearly totals of planning applications assessed as raising
substantive issues, and the equally high levels of archaeological fieldwork projects
and reports made over the reporting period confirms a continuing increase in the levelof heritage-related enabling activities associated with sustained economic
development.

The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

52

Historic Environment Record Maintenance and Development
2.1

During the report period 378 new site records were added to the Historic Environment
Record database, 189 existing site records were amended, 292 archaeologicalevents records were added, and 213 archive records (indexed cross-references toreports received by the Service in paper and digital formats) were created. Onceagain, this is a modest degree of enhancement to the Historic Environment Record
which because of planning casework priorities was concentrated on the integration ofrecords arising from current archaeological fieldwork rather than on the pre-emptive
identification of previously unrecorded and currently unthreatened sites in the broader
landscape.

2.2

The Service’s website (http://www.wosas.net) was updated over the report period witha further 11 news items from throughout the WoSAS area, and with monthly updatesof Historic Environment Record data. During the same period, there were just over
580,000 “hits” on the Service website.

2.3

Continuing liaison between the national heritage agencies and the Service as themember Councils’ representative on the Association of Local Authority Archaeological
Officers (ALGAO:Scotland) has allowed the WoSAS Historic Environment Record tocontinue to contribute on a cost-neutral basis to shared data sources which are being
developed under the Scottish Historic Environment Data Strategy (SHED Strategy)
under the direction of the Scottish SMR Forum, on which the Service sits on behalf ofthe member Councils.

2.4

Contacts with the spatial information programme team of the Scottish Government’s
Improvement Service through the Scottish SMR Forum continues to ensure that the
WoSAS Historic Environment Record meets with the nationally-established protocols
required to comply with the European Union’s INSPIRE Directive concerning data
access. Discussions have begun regarding cooperation with the Improvement
Service’s new Spatial Hub website project, which is designed to negate the need for
local authorities to set up their own INSPIRE-compliant portals, and may therefore
provide better public information access for member Councils at no additional cost.

2.5

During the report period, the Service assisted four PhD candidates with data for their
theses and with advice, and assisted one amateur archaeology group with Historic
Environment Record data for their survey purposes. The Service also provided data
and assistance to four other individuals and community groups who had need ofhistoric environment advice, but who had no archaeological expertise.

The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

6

3

Advice to Argyll and Bute Council
Development Plan Advice

3.1

There were no requests for assistance from the Council during the report period in
respect of development plan advice.
Development Management Advice

3.2

Over the report period 49 weekly lists of planning applications from the Council weremonitored by the Service and 159 new planning applications were identified asraising potential archaeological issues, 130 by the Archaeology Service and 29 byCouncil staff. In addition further work was done in respect of 80 planning applications
which had been submitted in previous years, including representing the Council at the
Public Local Inquiry into the proposed Creggan Windfarm in Kintyre, where following
the advice of the Service the Council had objected to the S36 Electricity Act
application on archaeological grounds, among others.

3.3

The 159 new planning applications were assessed by the Service in terms of thepolicy and guidance contained in Scottish Planning Policy and Planning Advice Note
2/2011. Of the 159 applications, 136 (85.5%) were actioned within 21 days (ourperformance standard is 80%), with the results set out in the table below:
Potential issues first identified by:

WoSAS

CouncilRefusal of planning application recommended
Archaeological assessment or evaluation prior to determination required
Negative suspensive condition requiring archaeological excavation
Archaeological watching brief condition required
Avoidance/protection within or to side of development
No issue, no action possible, including no issue after further work

Total of
cases

3
14
29
31
2
48
127

1
6
8
1

4
20
37
32
2
64
159

Totals16
32

Altogether, 95 of the 159 planning applications (59.8%) identified for detailed
assessment required some form of response to mitigate the effects of the proposals
on archaeological remains.
3.4

Refusal of the submitted planning application was recommended in respect of four
new proposals, two of which were for small-scale wind power projects which wereclose to nationally important Scheduled Monuments, the landscape settings of which
would have been seriously affected by the proposals. A further application was for a
run-of-river hydro-electric scheme which would have required its penstock, or
pipeline, to run through an area with a complex of prehistoric ritual and funerarymonuments, two of which were designated as Scheduled Monuments. The final case
was an application for the erection of a garage/store in close proximity to a prehistoric
fort, where again the proposals were likely to significantly affect the landscape settingof the nationally important monument in a way that could not be adequately mitigated.
In accordance with national and local government policy, refusal of the submitted
applications was recommended.

3.5

Argyll and Bute is known for the richness of its visible archaeological remains, but
important remains can also survive below ground, only to be revealed during ground
disturbance. An archaeological evaluation of an open field near Port Ellen on Islay
where housing was proposed identified a series of thirteen pits which provided
evidence of early prehistoric occupation on a relatively level part of the site. The

The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

7

evaluation showed that the prehistoric occupation was localized, and could be
avoided by careful design of future development proposals.
3.6

As mentioned in last year’s report, a further phase of the long-term sand and gravel
extraction at Kilmartin Quarry is imminent. The latest archaeological evaluation that isa requirement of the development programme that was first granted consent in the
1990s uncovered a continuation of the Neolithic pit-defined cursus monument, two
probable Bronze Age burial cairns and two other possible burial features, a buried soil
containing sherds of what appears to be Middle Bronze Age pottery, and a number ofother postholes and pits. The evaluation of the open field also revealed the presenceof possible later prehistoric and/or medieval features including a possible kiln, a
rectangular structure, and a number of pits containing remnants of metalworking. Full
excavation of the significant features which will be threatened with destruction by thequarry will follow.
Other Advice within the Council's Area

3.7

During the report period advice was provided to a variety of clients, including Council
staff, in respect of 97 other items of casework, including 19 pre-application enquiries,
37 HER site information queries or public enquiries, and 12 enquiries from statutory
undertakers.

3.8

The Service has participated in the development of a Regional ArchaeologicalResearch Framework for Argyll, as a part of an Advisory Group for the project which
has been led by Kilmartin House Museum, with funding from the Society of
Antiquaries of Scotland.

The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

8

4

Advice to East Ayrshire Council
Development Plan Advice

4.1

There were no requests for assistance from the Council during the report period in
respect of development plan advice.
Development Management Advice

4.2

Over the report period 50 weekly lists of planning applications from the Council weremonitored by the Service and 99 new planning applications were identified as raisingpotential archaeological issues, 21 by the Archaeology Service and 78 by Council
staff. In addition further work was done in respect of 25 planning applications which
had been submitted in previous years.

4.3

The 99 new planning applications were assessed by the Service in terms of the policy
and guidance contained in Scottish Planning Policy and Planning Advice Note
2/2011. Of the 99 applications, 88 (88.9%) were actioned within 21 days (ourperformance standard is 80%), with the results set out in the table below:
Potential issues first identified by:

Refusal of planning application recommended
Archaeological assessment or evaluation prior to determination required
Negative suspensive condition requiring archaeological excavation
Archaeological watching brief condition required
No issue, no action possible, including no issue after further work

TotalsWoSAS

Council

Total of
cases

9
1
2
9
21

1
9
14
4
50
78

1
18
15
6
59
99

Altogether, 40 of the 99 planning applications (40.4%) identified for detailed
assessment required some form of response to mitigate the effects of the proposals
on archaeological remains.
4.4

Refusal of the submitted planning application was recommended in respect of a
proposal for a major leisure and tourism development within the nationally importantdesignated Garden and Designed Landscape surrounding Loudoun Castle, near
Galston. The application for enabling development to fund the restoration of the ‘A’
Listed castle ruins, which themselves enclose a medieval tower-house castle, was felt
to take insufficient account of the capacity of the designed landscape toaccommodate the scale of development proposed without adverse impact, and did
not provide sufficient information to judge whether or not the project could succeed in
its aims regarding the ruined castle. In accordance with national and local
government policy, refusal of the submitted application was recommended.

4.5

Multi-disciplinary works including an archaeological watching brief and recording
continued at Dumfries House near Auchinleck, as part of a project to record andrestore the Category ‘A’ Listed Temple and establish a Memorial Garden next to it. In
addition to their value as components of the Dumfries House Estate, a designatedGarden and Designed Landscape which originated in the seventeenth century, andwhich provides the setting for the Category ‘A’ Listed Dumfries House by Adam, thesite had also been part of a Royal Tank Corps training camp, which itself had been
converted to a Prisoner of War camp in 1943, and later to a post-war repatriation
centre for Polish servicemen. Despite their considerable social history interest,
modern military sites like this have become increasingly rare, and the work here has

The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

9

allowed important details to be recorded, and has allowed surviving elements to be
identified for preservation in situ within managed woodland.
Other Advice within the Council's Area
4.7

During the report period advice was provided to a variety of clients, including Council
staff, in respect of 21 other items of casework, including 13 pre-application enquiries,
5 HER site information queries or public enquiries, and 2 enquiries from statutory
undertakers.

The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

105

Advice to East Renfrewshire Council
Development Plan Advice

5.1

There were no requests for assistance from the Council during the report period in
respect of development plan advice.
Development Management Advice

5.2

Over the report period 49 weekly lists of planning applications from the Council weremonitored by the Service and 22 new planning applications were identified as raisingpotential archaeological issues, 12 by the Archaeology Service and 10 by Council
staff. In addition further work was done in respect of 10 planning applications which
had been submitted in previous years.

5.3

The 22 new planning applications were assessed by the Service in terms of the policy
and guidance contained in Scottish Planning Policy and Planning Advice Note
2/2011. All 22 applications (100%) were actioned within 21 days (our performancestandard is 80%), with the results set out in the table below:
Potential issues first identified by:

WoSAS

CouncilArchaeological assessment or evaluation prior to determination required
Negative suspensive condition requiring archaeological excavation
Archaeological watching brief condition required
No issue, no action possible, including no issue after further work

Total of
cases

2
4
1
5
12

3
1
0
6
10

5
5
1
11
22

Totals

Altogether, 11 of the 22 planning applications (50%) identified for detailed
assessment required some form of response to mitigate the effects of the proposals
on archaeological remains.
5.4

Archaeological evaluation in advance of the development of the Newton Mearns Faith
Schools’ Joint Campus at Alton, Newton Mearns identified surviving remains of asmall Agricultural Improvement period farmstead. Due to the proximity of themedieval Mearns Castle, and the possibility that the site of the farm was also in use in
the medieval period, full excavation of the surviving remains was undertaken before
construction of the new school began. The site was of considerable interest to local
people because of its placename associations with the medieval period, but the
excavation was able to confirm that settlement at this particular site extended back nofurther than the mid-eighteenth century. Nevertheless, excavated examples ofabandoned late eighteenth century farmsteads are rare, and the results are valuable
as a ‘snapshot’ of rural life in the Agricultural Improvement period.
Other Advice within the Council's Area

5.5

During the report period advice was provided to a variety of clients, including Council
staff, in respect of 10 other items of casework, including 4 pre-application enquiries, 3
HER site information queries or public enquiries and 2 enquiries from statutory
undertakers.

The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

11

6

Advice to Glasgow City Council
Development Plan Advice

6.1

Advice was provided to the Council in two instances regarding the extent of known
archaeological sites within the Council area, and regarding the wording of suitablearchaeological policies and statutory supplementary guidance for inclusion in the new
Local Development Plan.
Development Management Advice

6.2

Over the report period 50 weekly lists of planning applications from the Council weremonitored by the Service and 48 new planning applications were identified as raisingpotential archaeological issues, 24 by the Archaeology Service and 24 by Council
staff. In addition further work was done in respect of 12 planning applications which
had been submitted in previous years.

6.3

The 48 new planning applications were assessed by the Service in terms of the policy
and guidance contained in Scottish Planning Policy and Planning Advice Note
2/2011. Of the 48 applications, 42 (87.5%) were actioned within 21 days (ourperformance standard is 80%), with the results set out in the table below:
Potential issues first identified by:

WoSAS

CouncilArchaeological assessment or evaluation prior to determination required
Negative suspensive condition requiring archaeological excavation
Standings buildings survey condition
Refer to Historic Scotland (scheduled monument or listed building)
No issue, no action possible, including no issue after further work

Total of
cases

5
7
1
1
11
25

3
0
0
1
19
23

8
7
1
2
30
48

Totals

Altogether, 18 of the 48 planning applications (37.5%) identified for detailed
assessment required some form of response to mitigate the effects of the proposals
on archaeological remains.
6.4

Following the pre-application discussions referred to in last year’s report regarding adevelopment on the banks of the Kelvin near Partick Cross, advance archaeologicalevaluation of the site revealed large in-filled ditches and substantial masonry remainsof what appears to have been the medieval summer residence of the Bishops ofGlasgow. Remains from the thirteenth to sixteenth centuries survived below extensive
industrial remains of the Victorian period. Subsequent work for Scottish Water on
adjacent land revealed yet more of the pre-Reformation Bishop’s residence and alater tower-house which was built on the site in the early seventeenth century. The
remains were extensive and well-preserved, and featured in national and international
media reports. The analysis of the remains found and the artefacts recovered fromthe associated features will provide details of medieval Glasgow that could only be
discovered by archaeological means.

6.5

The Service engaged in pre-application discussions with archaeological consultantsfor the developer of a large area in the Gorbals and Laurieston, on the south side of
Clyde close to the city centre. Although modern development has destroyed much of
the old Gorbals, which was an unofficial suburb of the medieval burgh of Glasgow on
the north bank of the Clyde, evaluation will establish if anything of note survives insmall pockets within the general development area.

The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

12

Other Advice within the Council's Area
6.6

During the report period advice was provided to a variety of clients, including Council
staff, in respect of 37 other items of casework, including 18 pre-application enquiries,
13 HER site information queries or public enquiries, and 4 enquiries regarding
statutory undertakings.

6.7

During the report period the manager of the Service represented the Council on theAntonine Wall Research Group and contributed to a consultation on the future
management of the Antonine Wall World Heritage Site.

6.8

The manager of the Service was cited as an expert witness for the Council andprovided a precognition regarding upstanding remains of industrial archaeological andhistorical significance which were referred to in a personal injury case brought against
the Council by a member of the public.

The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

13

7

Advice to North Ayrshire Council
Development Plan Advice

7.1

There were no requests for assistance from the Council during the report period in
respect of development plan advice.
Development Management Advice

7.2

Over the report period 50 weekly lists of planning applications from the Council weremonitored by the Service and 55 new planning applications were identified as raisingpotential archaeological issues, 34 by the Archaeology Service and 21 by Council
staff. In addition further work was done in respect of 22 planning applications which
had been submitted in previous years.

7.3

The 55 new planning applications were assessed by the Service in terms of the policy
and guidance contained in Scottish Planning Policy and Planning Advice Note
2/2011. Of the 55 applications, 45 (81.8%) were actioned within 21 days (ourperformance standard is 80%), with the results set out in the table below:
Potential issues first identified by:

WoSAS

CouncilArchaeological assessment or evaluation prior to determination required
Negative suspensive condition requiring archaeological excavation
Archaeological watching brief condition required
Other condition e.g. archaeological mitigation strategy required
No issue, no action possible, including no issue after further work

Total of
cases

1
13
4
1
15
34

5
5
2
1
8
21

6
18
6
2
23
55

Totals

Altogether, 32 of the 55 planning applications (58.2%) identified for detailed
assessment required some form of response to mitigate the effects of the proposals
on archaeological remains.
7.4

Pre-application discussion with the conservation architect for a project at PortencrossCastle regarding the archaeological potential of its surroundings resulted in theowners agreeing to voluntarily commit to undertake archaeological fieldwork as partof the development preparation work. This allowed the results of the archaeologicalwork to be assessed early and allowed a planning condition to be avoided.

7.5

After previous evaluation of a small site at Blackwaterfoot on Arran found surviving
prehistoric remains, the whole development area was stripped of its topsoil andexcavated to recover information about the site’s past use and allow the development
to proceed. The confirmed presence of the Bronze Age and early Neolithic timberhouses across the site demonstrated a long period of occupation. Although invisible
from ground level, the discovery and excavation of sites like this is important as it
reveals more about the everyday lives of the prehistoric inhabitants of the island.
Other Advice within the Council's Area

7.6

During the report period advice was provided to a variety of clients, including Council
staff, in respect of 28 other items of casework, including 11 pre-application enquiries,
11 HER site information queries or public enquiries, and 1 enquiry from a statutory
undertaker.

The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

148

Advice to Renfrewshire Council
Development Plan Advice

8.1

There were no requests for assistance from the Council during the report period in
respect of development plan advice.
Development Management Advice

8.2

Over the report period 50 weekly lists of planning applications from the Council weremonitored by the Service and 41 new planning applications were identified as raisingpotential archaeological issues, 27 by the Archaeology Service and 14 by Council
staff. In addition further work was done in respect of 15 planning applications which
had been submitted in previous years.

8.3

The 41 identified planning applications were assessed by the Service in terms of thepolicy and guidance contained in Scottish Planning Policy and Planning Advice Note
2/2011. Of the 41 applications, 39 (95.1%) were actioned within 21 days (ourperformance standard is 80%), with the results set out in the table below:
Potential issues first identified by:

Refusal of planning application recommended
Archaeological assessment or evaluation prior to determination required
Negative suspensive condition requiring archaeological excavation
Archaeological watching brief condition required
No issue, no action possible, including no issue after further work

TotalsWoSAS

Council

Total of
cases

3
10
6
8
27

1
1
2
3
7
14

1
5
12
9
15
41

Altogether, 26 of the 41 planning (63.4%) applications identified for detailed
assessment required some form of response to mitigate the effects of the proposals
on archaeological remains.
8.4

Refusal of the submitted planning application was recommended in respect of a 8.5ha
solar farm renewable energy proposal near Lochwinnoch. While checking the weekly
list of planning applications, the Service identified that the development as initially
proposed would significantly affect the landscape setting of a nearby nationally
important Scheduled Monument. In accordance with national and local government
policy, refusal of the submitted application was recommended, although it was notedthat the setting issue could be minimised or negated through sensitive re-design.

8.5

The continuing phased redevelopment of the former Royal Ordnance Factory inBishopton meant that further archaeological fieldwork took place as set out in the
Archaeological Mitigation Strategy agreed in the detailed discussions between theService and the developers’ archaeological contractor at the outset of this major
project. Further elements of historic building recording were required, along with field
evaluation of new road connections. The scope of the new phases of work was
agreed more quickly as the details provided were in accord with the agreed strategy.
Three further areas of the former factory were able to be “signed off” after recording
had been completed satisfactorily, and the reports on the evaluation of threegreenfield areas were assessed by the Service as identifying no significant remains
worthy of further work.

8.6

A watching brief on a development at Gauze Street, Paisley revealed fragmentary
sub-surface remains of a former nineteenth century building, and evidence that the

The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

15

site had been truncated to the level of geological subsoil and subsequently leveled up
with modern deposits. The confirmation of the ground conditions on this site, and theobservations regarding the presence and depth of modern made ground in the area
will improve the information available in future decision-making.
Other Advice within the Council’s Area
8.7

During the report period advice was provided to a variety of clients, including Council
staff, in respect of 18 other items of casework, including 7 pre-application enquiries, 4
HER site information queries or public enquiries, and 1 enquiry from a statutory
undertaker.

The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

16

9

Advice to South Ayrshire Council
Development Plan Advice

9.1

There were no requests for advice from the Council in respect of the development
plan over the report period.
Development Management Advice

9.2

Over the report period 50 weekly lists of planning applications from the Council weremonitored by the Service and 72 new planning applications were identified as raisingpotential archaeological issues, 24 by the Archaeology Service and 48 by Council
staff. In addition further work was done in respect of 30 planning applications which
had been submitted in previous years.

9.3

The 72 new planning applications were assessed by the Service in terms of the policy
and guidance contained in Scottish Planning Policy and Planning Advice Note
2/2011. Of the 72 applications, 63 (87.5%) were actioned within 21 days (ourperformance standard is 80%), with the results set out in the table below:
Potential issues first identified by:

WoSAS

CouncilRefusal of planning application recommended
Archaeological assessment or evaluation prior to determination required
Negative suspensive condition requiring archaeological excavation
Archaeological watching brief condition required
Avoidance/protection within or to side of development
Refer to Historic Scotland (scheduled monument or listed building)
No issue, no action possible, including no issue after further work

Total of
cases

0
0
5
5
1
1
12
24

1
8
2
1
0
0
34
48

1
8
7
6
1
1
36
72

Totals

Altogether, 24 of the 72 planning applications (33.3%) identified for detailed
assessment required some form of response to mitigate the effects of the proposals
on archaeological remains.
9.4

Refusal of the submitted planning application was recommended in respect of an 8
turbine wind proposal at Altercannoch which would significantly affect the landscapesetting of a number of monuments of potential national importance, including somewhich form discrete groups within the local landscape. In accordance with national
and local government policy, refusal of the submitted application was recommended.

9.5

The latest phase of archaeological work for Mactaggart & Mickel Ltd at Greenan,south of Ayr, commenced with discussions with the Service over the most appropriate
and cost-effective means to mitigate any adverse archaeological effects in an area
which has already proved to contain many important prehistoric remains fromdifferent periods. Because of the density of previous finds, it was agreed that further
evaluation was unlikely to be cost-effective, and that instead the whole of thedevelopment footprint should be stripped of its topsoil under archaeologicalsupervision, and that the expected archaeological remains exposed by this should
then be identified, planned and excavated. Post excavation analysis has yet to becompleted, but what appears to have been a large Bronze Age roundhouse wasfound in an area of intense activity. Of potentially greater significance, two or perhaps
three other older round structures were also found, surrounded by many small pits
and other features associated with Mesolithic stone tool technology. As Mesolithic
people lived as travelling hunter-gatherers, the buildings or shelters they used in their

The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

17

temporary seasonal settlements were less substantial than those of later more settled
populations. Remains of these early seasonal settlements have rarely been foundand this site will be a valuable addition to the national distribution.
9.6

Evaluation of the site of the new Ayr Academy revealed more than 100 discrete pits,
36 postholes, 30 fire pits and 12 other associated features, along with three boundary
ditches and cultivation remains and plough marks indicating that the area had been
intensively used in the past, possibly from as early as Early Neolithic (c 4300 to 3800
BC), but more certainly from the Bronze Age (2200 to 800 BC) into later periods. The
fire pits and associated features found all across the site were clear evidence for
episodes of burning, but their function or purpose remains unclear. Similar fire pits
have been identified across Scotland, and have been considered to be field ovens.
Post-excavation analysis of samples from these pits may identify cereal grains orburnt bone that might suggest either a domestic or ceremonial use, or they may
contain waste material relating to the manufacture of ceramics or stone tools. It has
been difficult to ascribe an accurate date to any of the possible structures, pits andpostholes, fire pits and linear features; however the post-excavation analysis of thefinds encountered within the features as well as any carbonised remains fromenvironmental samples should provide a suitable datable sequence.
Other Advice within the Council's Area

9.7

During the report period advice was provided to a variety of clients, including Council
staff, in respect of 17 other items of casework, which included 8 pre-applicationenquiries, 4 enquiries from statutory undertakers, and 4 HER site information queriesor public enquiries.

The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

18

10

Advice to South Lanarkshire Council
Development Plan Advice

10.1

There were no requests for advice from the Council in respect of the development
plan over the report period.
Development Management Advice

10.2

Over the report period 52 weekly lists of planning applications from the Council weremonitored by the Service and 154 new planning applications were identified asraising potential archaeological issues, 72 by the Archaeology Service and 82 byCouncil staff. In addition further work was done in respect of 83 planning applications
which had been submitted in previous years.

10.3

The 154 new planning applications were assessed by the Service in terms of thepolicy and guidance contained in Scottish Planning Policy and Planning Advice Note
2/2011. Of the 154 applications, 133 (86.4%) were actioned within 21 days (ourperformance standard is 80%), with the results set out in the table below:
Potential issues first identified by:

WoSAS

CouncilRefusal of planning application recommended
Archaeological assessment or evaluation prior to determination required
Negative suspensive condition requiring archaeological excavation
Archaeological watching brief condition requiredStandings buildings survey condition
No issue, no action possible, including no issue after further work

Total of
cases

0
2
9
18
1
42
72

1
5
20
10
2
44
82

1
7
29
28
3
86
154

Totals

Altogether, 68 of the 154 planning applications (44.2%) identified for detailed
assessment required some form of response to mitigate the effects of the proposals
on archaeological remains.
10.4

Refusal of the planning application was recommended in respect of a proposal for a
new house within a Scheduled Monument at Cleghorn. In accordance with national
and local government policy, refusal was recommended, although it was noted that as
Historic Environment Scotland were reported to be in the process of de-schedulingthe application site, a re-application or delay in determination of the proposed
application might mean that the proposals would not then conflict with policy.

10.5

The implementation of archaeological mitigation before quarrying operations at
Cloburn Quarry near Lanark resulted in the complete excavation of a large Bronze
Age kerb cairn which had been disturbed in the nineteenth century. Two stone burial
cists and a cremation deposit with pottery fragments were found within the cairn, andanother cremation deposit was found under the floor of one of the cists. The oldground surface was identified under the cairn, and at its outer edge, a rare Middle
Bronze Age rapier was discovered. Only around 40 bronze dirks and rapiers havebeen recorded throughout Scotland, and this is the first known example found in
Lanarkshire. While they are occasionally encountered in hoards, these objects are
more often found in wet places such as peat bogs, so the discovery of an isolated
specimen in close association with a burial monument of comparable date is very
interesting. The initial assessment is that the rapier perhaps dates from around 1600
BC, and has affinities with known examples from Dumfries & Galloway and Ireland.

The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

19

10.6

The latest phase of archaeological work at the Clyde Wind Farm, near Crawford,
commenced with discussions with the Service over the scope and cost-effectivenessof monitoring cabling works and wayleaves. Evaluation and watching brief work on
sloping areas within the upland valleys revealed evidence of leveled prehistoric houseplatforms which had been cut into the slope, but which had subsequently been
completely obscured by soil washed down the hill by natural processes in later
centuries. These platforms, which are grouped in what are known as unenclosed
platform settlements, are relatively common in the southern part of Scotland, but their
numbers and distribution, and the effect that may have on estimates of population
density in the landscape, will now have to be reassessed following the discovery thatexamples may be invisible at modern ground level.
Other Advice in the Council's Area

10.7

During the report period advice was provided to a variety of clients, including Council
staff, in respect of 66 other items of casework, including 12 pre-application enquiries,
23 HER site information queries or public enquiries, and 4 enquiries from statutory
undertakers.

The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

20

11

Advice to West Dunbartonshire Council
Development Plan Advice

11.1

There were no requests for advice from the Council in respect of the development
plan over the report period.
Development Management Advice

11.2

Over the report period 51 weekly lists of planning applications from the Council weremonitored by the Service and 23 new planning applications were identified as raisingpotential archaeological issues, 16 by the Archaeology Service and 7 by Council staff.
In addition further work was done in respect of 14 planning applications which had
been submitted in previous years.

11.3

The 23 identified planning applications were assessed by the Service in terms of thepolicy and guidance contained in Scottish Planning Policy and Planning Advice Note
2/2011. Of the 23 applications, 21 (90.9%) were actioned within 21 days (ourperformance standard is 80%), with the results set out in the table below:
Potential issues first identified by:

Refusal of planning application recommended
Negative suspensive condition requiring archaeological excavation
Archaeological watching brief condition required
Other condition e.g. archaeological mitigation strategy required
Refer to Historic Scotland (scheduled monument or listed building)
No issue, no action possible, including no issue after further work

TotalsWoSAS

Council

Total of
cases

1
3
2
1
2
7
16

0
2
0
0
0
5
7

1
5
2
1
2
12
23

Altogether, 11 of the 23 planning applications (47.8%) identified for detailed
assessment required some form of response to mitigate the effects of the proposals
on archaeological remains.
11.4

Refusal of the submitted planning application was recommended in respect of a
proposed stable block at Cleddans Farm, on the line of the Antonine Wall Roman
Frontier World Heritage Site. While checking the weekly list of planning applications,
the Service identified that the proposed building would sit within the nationally
important Scheduled Monument boundary associated with the Roman frontier works.
In accordance with national and local government policy, refusal of the submitted
application was recommended. Following discussions with the planning officer, thedeveloper, and Historic Environment Scotland, the application was withdrawn.

11.5

Archaeological evaluation and a watching brief at the site of new Council offices in
Dumbarton revealed the extent of the modern made ground at the eastern end of themedieval burgh. The elevation of the natural deposits observed at the base of
trenches confirmed that the strategically important medieval royal burgh wasestablished on what was almost a tidal island between the mouth of the River Levenand the Clyde.

11.6

A watching brief during the creation of a micro-hydro scheme at Milton Brae near
Dumbuck revealed hitherto unknown details of the water management featuresassociated with the historically important Old Mill at Milton, a now ruinous eighteenth
century cotton mill which was claimed to have Scotland’s earliest powered looms andis one of the most important industrial archaeological sites in Dunbartonshire

The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

21

Other Advice within the Council's Area
11.7

During the report period advice was provided to a variety of clients, including Council
staff, in respect of 13 other items of casework, including 5 pre-application enquiries, 7
HER site information queries or public enquiries, and an enquiry regarding theCouncil’s upgrading of the enclosure surrounding an exposed section of the Antonine
Wall Roman Frontier in Golden Hill Park, Duntocher.

11.8

During the report period the manager of the Service also represented the Council on
the Antonine Wall Research Group and contributed to a consultation on the future
management of the Antonine Wall World Heritage Site.

The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

22

12

Advice to West Lothian Council
Development Plan Advice

12.1

There was one request for assistance from the Council relating to the Local
Development Plan during the report period.
Development Management Advice

12.2

Over the report period 52 weekly lists of planning applications from the Council weremonitored by the Service and 128 new planning applications were identified asraising potential archaeological issues, 40 by the Archaeology Service and 88 byCouncil staff. In addition further work was done in respect of 34 planning applications
which had been submitted in previous years.

12.3

The 128 new planning applications were assessed by the Service in terms of thepolicy and guidance contained in Scottish Planning Policy and Planning Advice Note
2/2011. Of the 128 applications, 110 (86.0%) were actioned within 21 days (ourperformance standard is 80%), with the results set out in the table below:
Potential issues first identified by:

WoSAS

CouncilArchaeological assessment or evaluation prior to determination required
Negative suspensive condition requiring archaeological excavation
Archaeological watching brief condition requiredStandings buildings survey condition
Other condition e.g. archaeological mitigation strategy required
No issue, no action possible, including no issue after further work

Total of
cases

5
7
8

5
12
17
1
2
51
88

10
19
25
1
2
71
128

Totals20
40

Altogether, 57 of the 128 planning applications (44.5%) identified for detailed
assessment required some form of response to mitigate the effects of the proposals
on archaeological remains.
12.4

A watching brief during relatively minor development by the National Trust for
Scotland to upgrade the visitors’ car park at the House of the Binns revealed anearlier approach road to the house, and a substantial garden wall which appears tobe associate d with a “lost” seventeenth century Physic Garden established on theestate by Sir Thomas Dalyell of The Binns, 1st Baronet.

12.5

Archaeological monitoring of service connections in the area of The Cross at thecentre of the royal burgh of Linlithgow were the final stage of the development of theformer Bus Station for supported housing. In the service trenches several deposits
containing pottery dating from the fifteenth to sixteenth centuries and oyster shells
and animal bone were found. Although they were heavily truncated by modern
service pipe cuts, the angle of the deposits suggested that they were located within apossible cut feature, probably tipped into the feature from the western side. A
Flemish-type floor tile was also found in what appeared to be a mixed midden
deposit, but the layers identified might alternatively represent a deliberate attempt toraise local street levels using redeposited midden material. Unfortunately the limited
nature of the investigation, within narrow service trenches, precluded any confirmed
interpretation of the possible feature but established that significant deposits cansurvive below modern street and pavement surfaces.

The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

23

Other Advice within the Council's Area
12.6

During the report period advice was provided to a variety of clients, including Council
staff, in respect of 28 other items of casework, including 16 pre-application enquiries,
4 HER site information queries or public enquiries, and 1 enquiry from a statutory
undertaker.

The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

24

13

Advice to the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority

13.1

Archaeological advice is provided to the National Park Authority planning service
under the terms of a chargeable Service Level Agreement covering the whole of the
National Park area. In the year 2015-16 the National Park Authority paid £16,667 to
the Service for archaeological planning advice, and other historic environment advice.
Development Plan Advice

13.2

There were no requests for advice and assistance from the Park Authority in respectof the local development plan over the report period.
Development Management Advice

13.3

Over the report period 52 weekly lists of planning applications from the Council weremonitored by the Service and 65 new planning applications were identified as raisingpotential archaeological issues, 35 by the Archaeology Service and 30 by Park
Authority staff. In addition further work was done in respect of 23 planningapplications which had been submitted in previous years.

13.4

The 65 identified planning applications were assessed by the Service in terms of thepolicy and guidance contained in Scottish Planning Policy and Planning Advice Note
2/2011. Of the 65 applications, 55 (84.6%) were actioned within 21 days (ourperformance standard is 80%), with the results set out in the table below:
Potential issues first identified by:

WoSAS

CouncilArchaeological assessment or evaluation prior to determination required
Negative suspensive condition requiring archaeological excavation
Archaeological watching brief condition requiredStandings buildings survey condition
Avoidance/protection within or to side of development
No issue, no action possible, including no issue after further work

Total of
cases

2
8
4
1
1
19
35

3
10
2
0
0
15
30

5
18
6
1
1
34
65

Totals

Altogether, 31 of the 65 planning applications (47.7%) identified for detailed
assessment required some form of response to mitigate the effects of the proposals
on archaeological remains.
13.5

A topographical survey was carried out in advance of the Bruach Caorainn
Hydropower scheme and recorded the deserted settlement of the same name, toinform the route of the proposed hydro power pipeline and ensure that it avoided
upstanding and visible remains of the settlement. During the survey, additional
information about the character and purpose of some of the settlement buildings andthe areas between them was recorded.

13.6

An archaeological survey, comprising a rapid desk-based assessment and walkover
was conducted over a parcel of land at Schannochill, Stirlingshire. This programme ofarchaeological work was commissioned by Forestry Commission Scotland (FCS).
Thirteen individual structures or features of archaeological or historical significancewere recorded within the Design Plan boundary and included a ruined building andassociated enclosure, two wells, a possible later medieval bank and field clearance
cairns. This survey allowed recommendations to be made regarding the avoidance ofthe newly identified archaeological features when the forestry planting took place,thereby ensuring their preservation within the landscape. The success of this publicly

The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

25

funded FCS project may serve to draw attention to the contrast with private sector
forestry applicants elsewhere in the WoSAS area, and their lack of uptake in theprocedures set up to allow them to obtain the historic environment advice necessary
to determine whether similar survey work should be undertaken.
Other Advice within the National Park Authority’s Area
13.7

During the report period advice was provided to a variety of clients, including National
Park Authority staff, in respect of 34 other items of casework including 5 preapplication enquiries, 14 forestry consultations, 8 HER site information queries or
public enquiries, and 5 enquiries from statutory undertakers.

The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

26

14

Information and Advice to Developers/Agents and to Statutory Undertakers

14.1

There were 118 requests for pre-application information and advice from developers
or their agents, including 42 requests for Historic Environment Record digital extracts.
In addition, advice was provided to archaeological contractors working for developers
on 57 cases where planning permission had been granted in previous years. There
were 35 requests for assistance in connection with Scottish Water, Scottish Water
Solutions, Scottish Power, Scottish and Southern Electricity, and Transerve
proposals. The fee-earned income from providing assistance to developers and theiragents was £14,200. This substantial increase on previous years’ totals can be
attributed to the introduction of the Service’s revised Access to Information andCharging Policy during the reporting period.

15

Agri-Environment Advice

15.1

As was reported last year, in the run-up to changes to national agri-environment
schemes and their treatment of the historic environment, the national agencies forforestry and for the historic environment indicated that any charges levied by theCouncil archaeological services for providing information and advice with regard toshould be recouped from the overall fees paid to the applicants and their agents bycentral government, rather than from separate grant-aid from Historic Scotland. In
2014-15 the Service received a transitional payment for the provision of advice on
applications to the Scottish Rural Development Programme (SRDP) up to the end of
the 2014 calendar year.

15.2

From January 2015 onwards requests for information and advice have been received
from the forestry agents and agricultural advisers, but despite further clarification andprocedural guidance being published by the Forestry Commission Scotland, theService’s offers to supply information and advice in line with our approved Access toInformation and Charging Policy have been consistently declined. Consequently,
except in the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park area where the National
Park Authority has underwritten the costs of providing such a service, any suchconsultations have been treated as un-resourced work, and removed from our priority
work-load lists.

15.3

When given the opportunity, and when other caseloads permit, the Service continues
to respond to the Forestry Authority’s Conservators requests for comments on newforestry proposals, felling licenses, and management plans when these are sent as
part of the Forestry Authority’s Local Authority consultation process. However, as thisconsultation role is not considered to be part of the core planning function of theService, consultation responses are not prioritised within the workstream, and arelimited to the provision of general advice and summary information, or to drawing
attention to what appears to be incomplete or inadequate provision for the historic
environment within the proposals where appropriate.

The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

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Appendix 1
Annual Performance Statistics 2015-16 (figures for the previous year in brackets forcomparison)

Monitoring of Weekly lists of planning applications
The performance standard in the WoSAS Service Level Agreement for this area ofwork is for 90% to be monitored and actioned within 14 calendar days of receipt.
Performance

97.28%(95.96%)

Planning and Listed Building Consultations
The performance standard in the WoSAS Service Level Agreement for this area ofwork is for 80% to be actioned within 21 calendar days of receipt.
Planning Applications
Argyll & Bute
East Ayrshire
East Renfrewshire
Glasgow City
North Ayrshire
Renfrewshire
South Ayrshire
South Lanarkshire
West Dunbartonshire
West LothianLoch Lomond & The Trossachs

85.53%
88.89%
100.00%87.50%
81.82%
95.12%
87.50%
86.36%
90.91%
85.94%
84.62%(81.64%)(83.33%)(92.31%)(84.62%)(88.00%)(90.91%)(87.04%)(88.14%)(81.25%)(90.00%)(92.59%)Overall Planning Application Performance

87.07%(86.19%)Other Work Areas
The performance standard for this area of work is for 80% to be actioned within 21
calendar days of receipt.
SRDP/Forestry Advice
Pre-Application Enquiries
Permitted Dev/Statutory Undertakings
Other Archaeological Consultations
General/SMR Enquiries

84.21%
87.07%
84.38%
85.71%
97.37%(77.01%)(88.55%)(92.31%)(100%)(100%)Overall Other Work Performance

87.32%(87.54%)The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

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Appendix 2

WEST OF SCOTLAND ARCHAEOLOGY SERVICEINCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNTFOR THE YEAR TO 31 MARCH 20162014/15£

2015/16£
Income128,095
26,425797

Contribution from participating authorities
Fees & Charges
Interest on balances

128,095
30,867652

155, 317

Total Income

159, 614

Expenditure
Employee Costs

144,332

Salaries, NI & Superannuation &Employee Related Costs

147,632

Administration Costs
270
3,256
4,458
2,900
212
2,402
14,655
1,910
30,063

Fees & Subscriptions
Travel & Subsistence
Rents
Equipment Purchase & maintenance
Catering
Building repairs and security
Purchase of services (miscellaneous)
Audit Fee

140
3,764
6,700
2,900
117
0
0
1,910
15,531

174,396

Total Expenditure

163,163(19,078)
122,640

Surplus/(Deficit) for Year
Surplus Brought Forward(3,549)103,562

103,562

Accumulated Surplus

100,013The Archaeology Service of the Councils of Argyll & Bute, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow City,
North Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and West Lothian,and of the Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park Authority.

29