Headland Archaeology, one of the UK's biggest archaeology companies, is warning that tough legislation for the designation and protection of UK heritage on land and at sea, will increasingly impact on the renewables sector as more projects arise.

Areas of historic importance are protected by the law and extend to offshore areas of 200NM (nautical miles). The new marine bill, which is set to be introduced later this year, will also provide clear measures to conserve the natural and historic marine environment.

Unless renewable companies are aware of these issues and prepare for the impact their schemes may have on heritage, they can be left with long delays, hefty costs and added risks to the overall project.

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Tim Holden, Managing Director of Headland Archaeology, said: "Protection of our cultural heritage is important and developers are legally obligated to follow strict guidelines. It is essential to understand that archaeology is all around us in remote uplands and lowlands, our towns and cities as well as at sea.

"Headland can identify areas of sensitivity, what is of historic importance progressing to excavation, only if required. Cultivation of land over time and rising sea levels make identification increasingly difficult but if companies plan ahead and have the expertise on hand, they can ensure projects progress on time and on budget as well as keep their green credentials intact.

"Even a simple sonar survey, a requirement by any company looking to develop at sea, can be used by Headland to pinpoint areas of concern."

(CD/JM)