Archaeology, Heritage and Planning Consultancy

Lir Archaeology is an archaeological, cultural and built heritage consultancy based in Gaeltacht Mhuscraí, Co. Cork. We offer high-quality heritage services throughout the island of Ireland, along with straightforward advice on heritage and planning.

Our licensed team delivers efficient, cost-effective archaeological solutions that meet the needs of both private and public sector clients. We promise clear communication and practical help.

Our Services

Planning, Due Diligence and Archaeological Screening 

From initial consultation and feasibility studies, to impact assessment, design team contribution and archaeological resolution, we identify risks and navigate the planning process with our clients while supporting sustainable development.

Our assessments analyse archaeological and historical data to identify heritage assets and evaluate potential impacts. Additionally, we contribute to statutory processes and offer services for Oral Hearings and Expert Witness testimony.

Under the EIA Directive, major building or development projects in the EU must first be assessed for their impact on the environment. Our assessments help planning authorities understand the extent of any possible disruption to archaeological remains.

Licensed Archaeological Monitoring

Archaeological monitoring involves having an archaeologist present during groundworks to observe and document any potential archaeological discoveries. Our team provides a reliable service, reducing delays for our clients while preserving historical findings.

Archaeological testing, often required in planning, involves excavating trenches to assess and record site features. We tailor test-trenching strategies to guide informed decisions before construction.

Archaeological excavation records and mitigates the impact of the new development. We ensure agreed methods, budgets, and timelines, identifying risks early to streamline excavation under the National Monument Service licensing.

We offer expert advice to local, regional and national groups and also provide a Conservation Management Plan that outlines the steps needed to preserve a heritage asset, tailored to its specific needs.

The geophysical survey offers a rapid, non-intrusive method of detecting potential sub-surface archaeology. Techniques include magnetometry, resistivity, magnetic susceptibility and ground-penetrating radar.

Architectural and Bulit Heritage Survey

We provide professional monument survey services to accurately locate, document, and preserve monuments. Our expertise ensures precise mapping and legal compliance for land management and heritage conservation.

We provide local history and placename research to uncover the origins of communities and geographic names. Our work helps preserve cultural heritage and deepen understanding of historical landscapes.

We offer folklore and oral history services to document and preserve traditional stories, customs, and lived experiences. Our work ensures cultural heritage is recorded and shared for future generations.

Person using a metal detector on a beach

When required, we provide wade and metal detector surveys to help ascertain the character, condition and extent of any archaeological areas, features or objects within or adjacent to rivers and other shallow water environments.

Derelict Building Grant Application and Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) Reports

Do you own a historic or vernacular building, or are you considering renovating one? Do you need a built heritage or condition survey for a Vacant or Derelict Property Grant application, a Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS), or as part of a Planning Permission application?

If so, get in touch with Lir Archaeology Heritage and Planning Consultancy to see how we can assist you with the application process.

An old abandoned house surrounded by green vegetation and trees.

COMPLETE RANGE OF SERVICES

Lir Archaeology provides a full suite of archaeological services to help clients fulfil their planning obligations.

FULLY LICENCED

Our archaeologists are deemed license-eligible by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage to carry out archaeological excavations.

PROFESSIONAL NETWORK

We collaborate with a diverse team of archaeological specialists, including geophysicists, osteoarchaeologists, illustrators, artefact specialists, and surveyors.

COMPETITIVE PRICING

We offer cost-effective solutions for all archaeology and heritage needs while maintaining a high level of efficiency and professionalism.

REGULATORY COMPLIANCE

We operate within the established legal framework to safeguard our heritage.

DEDICATION TO HERITAGE

We provide heritage guidance to local communities and schools, and offer various services to help businesses and communities engage with the expanding heritage sector.