The Potential of Integrated Urban Deposit Modelling as a Cultural Heritage Planning Tool

Abstract

Researchers investigating human settlements from an archaeological perspective have long recognized that the urban landscape provides a particular set of challenges and demands. Building on the formative Arup study [Ove Arup and Partners (1991) York Development and Archaeology Study (London: English Heritage)], urban deposit modelling as a heritage planning tool has been developed for some time; however, its use has not become widespread. There are however recent intellectual and technical developments that enhance integrated deposit modelling and reveal potential as a curatorial tool for the management of the historic environment. These relate to three key developments: the improvement and enhancement of 3D modelling and visualization techniques, conceptual changes around categories such as ‘made ground’ and the formation of research agendas for the urban historic environment. This paper will explore an example of the difficulties inherent in combining differently scaled datasets whilst also outlining the potential and the significance of urban deposit modelling in, often deeply stratified, historic northern European cities.

Keywords::

• deposit modelling
• historic environment
• urban space
• preservation

Acknowledgements

The author acknowledges the significant contribution of a number of colleagues to this discussion: Steve Roskams (University of York), Simon Price (British Geological Survey) and John Oxley (City of York Council). Grateful thanks to Ken Hamilton, Hans de Beer, Pete Connelly and Helen Goodchild.

Notes

^1.http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/publications/nhpp-plan-framework/

^2.http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/professional/protection/national-heritage-protection-plan/plan/activities/3a5, NHPP Activity 3A5 Wetland and Waterlogged Heritage Survey.

^3.http://www.heritage.norfolk.gov.uk/gyam