§ Mr. Gareth WardellTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will publish in theOfficial Report the number of instances in Wales whereby landowners have been required to incur the costs of archaeological explorations and/or excavations; and if he will indicate the total cost of such work.
§ Sir Wyn RobertsThere is no specific statutory provision to require landowners to meet the costs of archaeological explorations and/or excavations. However, the treatment of archaeological remains can be a material consideration in the determination of planning applications and local planning authorities can impose appropriate conditions to protect monuments or ensure access for archaeologists. In addition voluntary agreements can also be made under section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 to provide for archaeological works. Such local arrangements are matters for the interested parties and are notified to the Department.