Wiltshire Council’s Archaeology team are really pleased to be able to announce a major development and investment in the service which will help us and our customers appreciate and understand the County’s rich archaeological resource. We have recently purchased and installed a new Historic Environment Records (HER) Database System. Whitesheet Hill on the HER system



Archaeology section at the Wiltshire & Swindon History Centre

The HER is a database and mapping system which is the definitive record of all known archaeological sites and find spots in Wiltshire and Swindon. In total it contains records of over 20,000 archaeological sites and finds, 6,550 events (excavations and other fieldwork projects) and 50,000 sources. The system we were working with previously (known as the Site and Monuments Record or SMR) was developed in the 1980s and had limitations.
The new software using GIS mapping linked to records held in database known as HBSMR. The new system will improve our digital facilities and functionality, especially when it comes to sharing our information with others. Importantly, it also means we are now able to meet  national data standards for HERs. Along with our new software we have developed a three year action plan for further enhancements and improvements to the system.
The new system is the vital tool in the work of the Archaeology team, especially in relation to the work we do regarding development proposals, advising farmers and landowners  and dealing with over 5,000 archaeological enquiries every year. If you would to find out more, please contact the Archaeology team on 01249 705503 or email archaeology@wiltshire.gov.uk

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