Geophysics is widely used in the support of planning applications.
Geophysical survey is a cost-effective, non-intrusive and relatively quick way of detecting and assessing sub-surface features. Our geophysical survey service specialises in identifying potential archaeological deposits. We offer a range of geophysical techniques, which can be employed individually or together depending on site specific factors.
Survey is followed by specialist analysis and interpretation of the data. Over the last 18 years our experienced survey teams have carried out surveys on a wide variety of projects, including:
All work is carried out to national standards and guidance. The survey techniques we most commonly use are magnetometry, earth electrical resistance (resistivity) and ground-penetrating radar (GPR).
Our surveys are related to the Ordnance Survey National Grid using global positioning systems (GPS) with real-time kinematic (RTK) corrections typically providing 10mm accuracy. Survey data can be quickly processed and analysed and provided in a variety of formats, including full CAD integration.
Magnetometry survey using our multichannel fluxgate gradiometer towed by quadbike allows fast, high-density data collection
Magnetometer survey showing the buried remains of the Roman Fort at Lanchester
Earth-electrical resistance survey at Chatsworth House
Earth-electrical resistance survey showing banks and ditches at the Haltwhistle Burn Roman marching camps at Hadrian's Wall
GPR survey outside Durham Cathedral
GPR results from Sri Lanka showing subsurface remains of a former church and streetfront
Archaeological Services
Durham University Ushaw: Historic House, Chapels & Gardens
near Durham
DH7 9RH
Tel: +44 (0)191 334 1121
Email: archaeological.services@durham.ac.uk