Heneb the new pan-Wales Trust for Welsh Archaeology was formed on 1 April 2024 following the merger of the four Welsh Archaeological Trusts and FAME members – Clwyd-Powys Archaeological Trust, Dyfed Archaeological Trust, Glamorgan-Gwent Archaeological Trust, and Gwynedd Archaeological Trust.

Its Board of Trustees met for its inaugural meeting on 26th April in Welshpool, opening a new chapter for archaeology in Wales. Heneb’s mission is:

“Inspiring communities to connect with their past by discovering and safeguarding the
archaeological heritage of Wales.”


Heneb becomes responsible for managing the Regional Historic Environment Records, which contain information on over 25,000 archaeological and historic sites and monuments across Wales. As a combined agency it also provides archaeological planning services, heritage management advice, and the community engagement programs previously offered by the 4 regional trusts, making it one the largest heritage management organisations in the UK with over 70 staff.

Dr Carol Bell, the former Acting President of Amgueddfa Cymru – National Museum Wales, has been appointed as the Chair of Trustees of Heneb and Richard Nicholls, formerly of the Arts Council of Wales and Amgueddfa Cymru assumed his role as its inaugural Chief Executive on 15th April 2024.

“With the formation of Heneb, Wales now has a national charity for archaeology. This is a truly exciting moment for archaeology in Wales as we combine the skills and expertise of the former regional trusts to become a significant heritage organisation. Heneb has both responsibility for the Historic Environment Record in Wales, but we can also provide the full range of commercial services required to provide solutions to planning needs and heritage site project management.”

Richard Nicholls

For more information about Heneb and its activities, please visit the trust’s website at
www.heneb.org.uk