IntroductionUniversity of Leicester Archaeological Services (ULAS) is an independent professional archaeological unit embedded in the School of Archaeology and Ancient History at Leicester University - a leading UK department with a grade 5 research rating. It is a registered organisation with the Institute of Field Archaeologists (IFA) offering a comprehensive archaeological service. The unit has undertaken a wide variety of large-scale archaeological projects covering all stages from assessment to mitigation for major developments including road schemes, pipelines, airport extensions, mineral extraction and housing. We have provided a consultancy and contracting service for numerous developers including; the Highways Agency, Environment Agency, Anglian Water Services, Birch Homes, East Midlands Airport, Lafarge Redland Aggregates, RJB Mining (UK) Ltd, RMC Group, Sainsburys, Severn Trent Water, Scottish Power, Wilson Bowden Properties and White Young Green and many more. The unit is experienced in providing archaeological assessments for Environmental Statements and Public Inquiries. ULAS consultants cover all periods and types of archaeology, many of whom are accepted leaders in their fields, such as the industrial archaeologist Professor Marilyn Palmer.The unit has particular expertise in urban archaeology and in achieving design solutions to enable development to proceed with the minimal impact to underlying archaeology. ULAS also contributes to undergraduate and post-graduate courses on Professional Skills and the Organisation and Management of Archaeology in Britain, and regularly present talks and open days to interested local groups.
