The Sites and Monuments Record

The principal catalogue of archaeological information is known as the Sites and Monuments Record (SMR). The SMR is updated almost on a daily basis as fieldwork is undertaken and as new information comes to hand. It currently contains information on over 5000 archaeological sites ranging, for example, from the find spot of a single prehistoric flint tool, through Roman occupation sites to Cold War defensive structures. The SMR also includes an Historic Buildings Record with descriptions and photographs of more than 4200 surviving pre-1840 buildings, and a Maritime Sites and Monuments Record which details the many shipwrecks and submerged sites in the surrounding sea area.

The SMR comprises a computerised database with links to a Geographic Information System (GIS), complemented by documentary archives and historic maps as well as extensive collections of aerial photographs and an archaeological library.

The Isle of Wight Council reserves the right to refuse access to information held on the Sites and Monuments Record if there is likely to be a threat to the security and preservation of the archaeological resource. Confidential information will not be disclosed.