Archaeological consultancy
Bringing archaeology to life through expert archaeological and heritage engagement, community participation and hands-on discovery.
Connecting people with the past
Our community archaeologist Alexis Haslam is an experienced project manager with a proven track record managing archaeological excavations, volunteer programmes, Young Archaeologists’ Clubs, talks, tours and public heritage projects. Alexis helps organisations create meaningful connections between people, archaeology and local history.
We specialise in developing and delivering community archaeology projects that inspire participation, learning and discovery. Combining commercial archaeological experience with extensive public engagement expertise, we work with museums, local authorities, developers, heritage organisations and community groups to create accessible and impactful archaeology programmes.
From excavation management and volunteer training to planning guidance, public talks, educational activities and community consultation, we ensure archaeology is both professionally delivered and widely enjoyed.
What we offer
Community archaeology project management
Design and delivery of community excavations and heritage projects that place local people at the heart of archaeological discovery.
Volunteer programmes
Recruitment, training and management of project archaeology volunteers of all ages and experience levels.
Schools & young people
Archaeology workshops, educational resources, work experience opportunities and support for Young Archaeologists’ Club activities.
Public talks & tours
Engaging talks, guided walks and site tours that make archaeological research accessible to diverse audiences.
Excavation management
Professional consultation and coordination of archaeological investigations, ensuring projects meet commercial, research and community engagement objectives.
Heritage consultation
Advice on public engagement strategies, interpretation, audience development and community participation within heritage projects.
Planning advice
Fulfilling planning conditions and contributing to the wider understanding of the historic environment.
Scheduled Ancient Monuments; listed buildings, sites of significant archaeology
As a Scheduled Ancient Monument and Grade 1 Listed Building, Fulham Palace has been subject to numerous archaeological investigations and historic building surveys. We are experienced in both heritage management and legislation.
Historic Building Surveys
Historic building surveys are part of the planning process which may be required as part of listed building consent. Depending on the complexity of the building and scope of development there are 4 levels of potential recording. Level 1 forms a basic visual record; Level 2 is a descriptive record when the building has a moderate level of historic interest; Level 3 is an analytical record where the building is of notable interest; and Level 4 comprises a comprehensive record where the building is of national significance. The survey can include comprehensive photographic records, investigation, analysis and descriptions of the fabric of the building in order to elucidate its use and structural history, scale drawings and an historical study into the building utilising documentary and historical sources.
Desk based assessments
The production of an archaeological desk-based assessment is often a planning requirement and represents the first steps in the archaeological process for a planning application. The assessment requires research to identify heritage assets within a set radius of a proposed site. It identifies and evaluates the potential for archaeological remains within the development area. The assessment then evaluates the proposed development and the potential impact it may have upon any archaeological remains present. Research involves a study of the Historic Environment Record, a map regression exercise and the consultation of numerous historical resources.
Environmental Impact Assessments
We are able to contribute to environmental impact assessments (EIA). An EIA is an information gathering service designed to assess the environmental consequences of development. Archaeology and cultural heritage assets represent environmental elements which must be taken into consideration along with other factors including landscape, noise, ecology and hydrology. This information is assembled and presented in a combined form as an Environment Statement.
Heritage statements
A report required by the Local Planning Authority in support of an application for planning permission or listed building consent in an area where the proposal may have an impact on heritage assets. The statement aims to assesses the impact of the proposed development upon the significance and setting of such assets. These may comprise areas of archaeological interest, conservation areas, listed buildings, registered parks and gardens and scheduled ancient monuments. Both physical and visual impacts are considered, with the statement required where development has the potential to affect the significance of the assets.
Written Schemes of Investigation
A written scheme of investigation is documentation required prior to archaeological works. These determine the proposed scope of works and are required for approval by the Local Planning Authority prior to works commencing.
Archaeology belongs to everyone
We believe archaeology is at its most powerful when people can participate directly in uncovering and understanding the past.
Whether supporting volunteers on an excavation, leading a heritage walk, developing family learning activities or advising on community consultation, our aim is to create welcoming and inclusive opportunities for people to engage with their local heritage.
Planning a community archaeology project?
Whether you’re a museum, heritage organisation, local authority, developer or community group, we’d love to help bring your archaeological stories to life.
About
Alexis Haslam, community archaeologist, joined Fulham Palace Trust in May 2017. He holds a BA in History and is a Member of the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists. He began working in archaeology upon graduating in 2000, working his way up from a field technician to a senior project officer. He has directed and published numerous archaeological excavations including the monograph Tales from the Vaults and other Newington Horror Stories. After 16 years he left Pre-Construct Archaeology to join Fulham Palace Trust and has just published This Land of Fifty Hides, the first complete history of Fulham Palace.
