The Merseyside Archaeological Service (MAS) was set up in 1991 and jointly funded by all five Merseyside local authorities (Knowsley, Liverpool, St Helens, Sefton and Wirral) to provide an archaeological planning advisory service. The MAS is hosted by National Museums Liverpool and is based within the Museum of Liverpool division.
The MAS provides advice on a range of development planning issues associated with the conservation and management of the overall historic environment, ie evidence of our past as seen in archaeological remains, historic buildings and landscapes of all periods. The MAS also manages the development of and access to the Merseyside Historic Environment Record (HER), which it uses to assist in the provision of advice and information to a range of enquirers.
The main areas of work consist of advice on individual development proposals, local authority management plans, strategies and policy. The main working contacts are officers within the local authority Planning Departments whom the MAS advises on the requirements for archaeological investigations.
Excavating building foundations