EHG5973 - DBA and walkover survey - Slattadale-Ullapool SHEPD network reinforcement

A desk-based assessment and targeted walkover surveys were undertaken by WSP in 2021 following a requirement identified by Scottish Hydro Electric Power Distribution plc (SHEPD) to reinforce the power network between Slattadale and Ullapool. The total length of the proposed development is approximately 62km. The work examined an Inner Study Area of approximately 200m extending either side of the proposed development (to allow for the micro siting of Poles and infrastructure) and an Outer Study Area of 1km beyond the proposed development for designated assets. The study of the surrounding landscape was necessary to establish the local archaeological and historical context, to provide a broader understanding of the historical development of the proposed development area and the potential for unidentified archaeological remains within those areas. Targeted walkover survey of the Inner Study Area was carried out between the 28th June – 2nd July 2021 and the 31st August – 2nd September 2021 in order to; assess the baseline condition of the known heritage assets within the Inner Study Area; Identify any further features of cultural heritage interest not detected through the desk-based assessment that could be affected by construction of the proposed development; and identify areas with the potential to contain currently unrecorded buried archaeological remains. Field visits were undertaken to selected heritage assets in the Inner Study Area in order to assess their baseline setting. Given the potential for subsurface stratified remains to survive within a number of areas across the proposed development it was recommended that a phase of archaeological monitoring is implemented during any ground-breaking or excavation works in a number of areas. Archaeological monitoring should also be undertaken during any ground-breaking works, including the addition of access tracks or platforms should temporary matting be unsuitable. In keeping with national and local planning guidance, any mitigation in the form of an archaeological monitoring during construction, will ascertain the nature, form and extent of any archaeological remains that survive. <1>