The application of airborne LiDAR survey for archaeological prospection, interpretation and management: a case-study from the Antrim Uplands

  • Rory McNeary

Student thesis: Doctoral Thesis

Abstract

This research aims to test the efficacy of LiDAR for archaeological prospection, interpretation and informed heritage management within an Area of Significant Archaeological Interest (ASAI) in the north-east of Ireland. The study is based on a 9 km² high-resolution (up to 40 points m-2) LiDAR survey of the upland Knockdhu Area, containing a landscape rich in relict multi-period features. The main objectives of the study are: a reappraisal of the archaeological resource using the LiDAR data in conjunction with other non-intrusive data sources; the construction of georeferenced datasets which collate information describing the archaeology; the production of an interpretive analysis for the principal relict settlement and associated patterns of land use evidenced in Drains Bog townland; and, the identification and recording of threats potentially impacting upon cultural heritage features at a landscape level. The project uses a traditional two-stage approach of desk-based assessment and feature transcription followed by sampled ground observation to confirm the accuracy of the desk-based interpretation and mapping. Data integration is a key element of the methodological approach with historical maps, documentary sources and aerial photographs used alongside the LiDAR data. A combination of local relief modelling and multi-directional hillshading are effective for the identification of relict landscape features, including low-level earthworks, in this open pasture upland environment. The study identifies 283 previously unrecorded archaeological features. Hut sites represent the predominant site type defined by analysis of the LiDAR data (59%), followed by enclosures (14%) and less determinable features classified as ‘structures’ (12%). In addition it has been possible to record numerous braided trackways (c. 23.5 km), former field boundaries (c. 29.4 km) and areas of relict cultivation (c. 50 ha). The systematic mapping from LiDAR data of relict agrarian settlement features in Drains Bog townland allows for a better understanding of their spatial arrangement, landscape context and function. It has also been possible to identify threats to monuments and map erosion features, such as gullies and animal and vehicular wear-paths, as well as more intrusive landscape management practice, such as arterial drainage. This research highlights the importance of LiDAR analysis for the characterization and interpretation of historical landscapes, with an obvious application in supporting archaeological survey and settlement pattern research. It also reinforces the practical application of LiDAR data for cultural heritage management initiatives, such as, historic environment record augmentation, as well as, revealing patterns of change and threats to the archaeological resource at a landscape level.
Date of AwardMay 2020
Original languageEnglish
SupervisorWes Forsythe (Supervisor), Colin Breen (Supervisor) & Rory Quinn (Supervisor)

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