Aerial view of the river Thames and Westminster
Central London © Historic England 24414_011
Central London © Historic England 24414_011

Greater London Archaeology Advisory Service

The Greater London Archaeology Advisory Service (GLAAS) is part of Historic England's London and South East Regional Office and a Chartered Institute for Archaeologists' (CIfA) Registered Organisation. Working with a number of partners, developers, archaeologists, and London boroughs, we promote understanding and enjoyment of our archaeological heritage through its protection, management and interpretation.

What is the role of the Greater London Archaeological Advisory Service?

We provide advice for the whole of Greater London, with the exception of the London Borough of Southwark which has its own archaeological planning advisers.

GLAAS maintains the Greater London Historic Environment Record (GLHER) which aims to cover all aspects of the capital’s historic environment. It informs planning decisions across the capital and is the core data upon which GLAAS advice is founded.

High standards and up-to-date professional methods are vital for understanding the significance of any heritage assets affected by development schemes. This understanding is a requirement of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF)

We have published a charter which explains our services and how we deliver them.

We have produced guidelines for archaeological policies and investigation in Greater London based on national planning policy and professional standards. Our aspirations to further improve the public value of London’s archaeology are outlined in our paper 'Planning for London's Archaeology'. We're now working with MOLA on a comprehensive renewal of our guidelines in support of the new London Plan. 

For GLAAS documents please see Publications and Guidance.

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