Greater London Archaeological Priority Areas (APAs)

An Archaeological Priority Area is a defined area where, according to existing information, there is significant known archaeological interest or particular potential for new discoveries. APAs are set out in the London boroughs' local plans. They inform the practical use of national and local planning policies for the recognition and conservation of archaeological interest. The Greater London APAs are based on evidence held in the Greater London Historic Environment Record (GLHER). The Greater London APAs were created in the 1970s and 1980s either by the boroughs or local museums. They are now being comprehensively updated using up to date evidence and consistent standards to comply with National Planning Policy. The new system assigns all land to one of four tiers denoting different levels of sensitivity to development indicated by an archaeological risk model. Image © Historic England Archive