advisory committee on historic wreck sites (achws)

Advisory Committee on Historic Wreck Sites (ACHWS)

2 Member Posts

The Advisory Committee was set up to advise Ministers following the passing of the Protection of Wrecks Act 1973. Section 1 of the 1973 Act empowers the Secretary of State to designate, by order, the site of what is, or may prove to be, the wreck of a vessel which should be protected from unauthorised interference because of its historical, archaeological or artistic importance. Such a designation makes it an offence to tamper with, damage, or remove any part of the wreck, its contents or its former contents. Activities on the wreck site may only be carried out under licence granted by the Secretary of State.

Time Commitment

At least 3 full day meetings a year. Members are also asked to attend the annual meeting with the Licensees of the Designated Wreck Sites. In addition, members may be asked to sit on sub-committees, on an ad-hoc basis, to discuss specific issues. Some additional time for studying reports will be required.

Role of ACHWS Members:

ACHWS members advise Ministers on:

The suitability of wreck sites to be designated for protection on the grounds of historical, archaeological, or artistic interest in accordance with the Protection of Wrecks Act 1973.
The issue of licences for the surveillance and excavation of designated sites by named individuals, and recommends the conditions to be attached to such licences.
Other general underwater archaeology issues which may affect historic wrecks within UK waters.

The Person

All Advisory Committee members shall demonstrate:

A general understanding of underwater archaeology issues.
An ability objectively to assess applications for the designation of wreck sites, and for licence applications.
An understanding of the need to maintain the confidentiality of Committee meetings

Specific Expertise

In addition, the successful candidates for these posts will be able to demonstrate:

Post 1 : Recreational Diving

Comprehensive knowledge of the trends and issues related to (UK & wreck-based) recreational diving.
Knowledge of the practice of maritime archaeology.

Post 2: Naval History

Specialist knowledge of UK naval/maritime history & the importance of watercraft development within that history.
Broad knowledge of the technological development of watercraft.

Supporting Information

Location of Meetings

Generally held at English Heritage’s offices in Central London. Officials from Historic Scotland, CADW (Welsh Historic Monuments), and DoE Northern Ireland also attend to advise on wrecks in the Devolved Administrations. The Licensees meeting may be held in another location.

Term of Appointment

Committee members are appointed for a term of 4 years, which may be renewed.

Remuneration

Advisory Committee members serve on an honorary basis but their travel expenses, incurred through attending meetings, are reimbursed. This position is not pensionable.

Start Date

Winter 2008

Application process

Deadline for Applications:
Friday 14th November 2008

Interviews
During week commencing 8 December 2008

Applications Forms & full role specification from
Mark Greenwood
Public Appointments
Dept. for Culture, Media & Sport
2/4 Cockspur Street,
London SW1Y 5DH

tel: 0207 211 2311
fax: 0207 211 2170

email: Mark.Greenwood@culture.gsi.gov.uk