- If it is determined that a complex assessment is required, the HA will prepare a plan for undertaking the complex assessment based on the information gathered by the desktop and standard assessments, and to ensure compliance with regulation 65.
- It is recommended that the HA discuss the plan for undertaking a complex assessment with the RAP at least once as it is being prepared. The RAP will have the opportunity to contribute to the plan during its preparation, and the HA will note RAP priorities for excavation and testing locations where they differ from the HA’s.
- The plan for undertaking a complex assessment will detail an excavation strategy and justification for this excavation strategy.
- The plan for undertaking a complex assessment should always include provisions for changes to be made and agreed as the assessment progresses, where conditions and circumstances warrant. This may be reflected in an email agreeing to alterations from the relevant RAP manager.
- Design of the excavation strategy will be in accordance with proper archaeological practice. This will include:
- Defining clear excavation research purposes and objectives
- Documenting the complex assessment design, which includes the following -
- Explaining intended excavation locations
- Explaining sampling strategy such as random, systematic, stratified or non-probabilistic
- Explaining post excavation research plan and custodial arrangements
- Explaining reporting process.
- The excavation strategy should be directed to emphasise the most sensitive areas as defined in the desktop and standard assessments, through RAP consultation and predictive modelling.
- The plan for undertaking a complex assessment will document how it is designed to assist the RAP assess section 61 matters, particularly sections 61(a) and (b).
- The plan for undertaking a complex assessment, and the date agreed (if agreement is reached), should be included in the CHMP.
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