Area 460 Geophysical Monitoring Report Archaeological Assessment

Geophysical and hydrographic survey data were collected during 2022 as part of the regional monitoring surveys for several marine aggregate extraction areas on behalf of the South Coast Dredging Association (SCDA). Data were collected within pre-defined boundaries covering a minimum of the dredging footprint and a pre-approved buffer. The data were assessed by a qualified and experienced maritime archaeologist to identify any features of potential archaeological significance and undertake a comparison with previously identified features, including within the archaeological baseline assessment undertaken prior to the commencement of dredging. The archaeological assessment of the data from Area 460 is being undertaken to fulfil licence monitoring conditions. 9.0 Conclusions Exclusion zones Following the review of the 2022 dataset, one exclusion zone has been recommended for retention within the extents of the licence area for Area 460. An area of operational awareness is provided for reference around low potential contacts MS22_0005 - MS22_0008. While the nature of the contacts is interpreted as likely geological in origin, maintaining an operational awareness may afford protection for any potential anthropogenic material, along with any other potential buried material or outlying debris, as well as protection to any operations in the vicinity of the contacts. Low potential contact MS22_0004 is provided as an area of operational awareness. While the nature of the contact is interpreted as potential debris, an area of operational awareness may afford protection to any operations in the vicinity of the contact. Impacts from dredging activities Contacts of high potential re-identified during the period of dredging activity suggest minimal impact to known archaeological sites within Area 460. No additional sites of high or medium potential have been identified in the geophysical and hydrographic data that may have been exposed as a result of dredging operations, suggesting the potential impact of dredging to the historic environment within Area 460 is minimal. The review of the 2022 datasets and previous archaeological reports established that the recommended exclusion zones are proportional and of a size suitable to mitigate impacts to the historic environment within Area 460.