Abstract/Summary

This guidance explains the importance of the English Palaeolithic record (about 1 million to 11,700 years ago) in its Pleistocene context and best practices for protecting it through the planning process, illustrated by case studies from across the country. The guidance focuses on the curation of the Palaeolithic and Pleistocene records (Part A) and is particularly intended for curators. It also provides background information on the Palaeolithic and Pleistocene records for those less familiar with the period (Part B). The guidance document is accompanied by a number of concise online case studies that illustrate a range of approaches for curating the Palaeolithic record. The document is intended to be used alongside other key guidance produced by Historic England, and acknowledges the primacy of relevant legislation. It is not a statement of Government policy, nor does it seek to prescribe a single methodology.