What will the new archaeology have to offer, asks Mike Heyworth?
Campaigns, comment and communications from the CBA Having looked back at developments in British archaeology over the last 10 years (feature, Jul/Aug), in tune with our new prime minister we should now be looking forward. If we could anticipate a “new” archaeology what would we like to see? What will the next 10 years bring? We’ve been here before. In November 1994 then CBA director Richard Morris commented in British Archaeological News (as this magazine was then called) on the publication of planning guidance on archaeology. This had shifted archaeological practice from rescuing sites towards leaving them alone. Morris proposed four key strategies: • Integrate evaluations into research programmes • Re-involve the voluntary sector • State agencies should conduct or assist flagship research projects • We should ignite and sustain the curiosity of children These strategies, Morris argued, would bring “coherence, buoyancy, and confidence for the future” and would go some way to negate PP
