Some closures of roads and car-parks will be implemented in the 'Heart of Sharjah' during the Survey.

Sharjah, 18th January 2012: Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) in collaboration with different Government entities in Sharjah will start its geophysical survey as part of the Heart of Sharjah project, one of the most important heritage projects in the region. It is the first of its kind and aimed at developing the old Heritage Area in the centre of Sharjah.

The project will be implemented in five phases, and is expected to be completed in 2025. Construction of the first phase commenced in August 2010, and is scheduled for completion within three years.

The aim of the first geophysical survey in the Heart of Sharjah area is to apply different survey methods to map and determine the nature and extent of the archaeological record for planning of future development as well as interpretation of any remains of the historic town.  it is hoped that the survey will also help us obtain accurate data on the detailed layout old coastal settlement of Sharjah and how it might have changed over the centuries.

Another aim is to develop a collaborative long-term training program with the University of Southampton Department of Archaeology and Marine Archaeology Stewardship Trust (MAST)  to look at the potentials to study the origins of traditional coastal settlements in Sharjah and the UAE in general. It is hoped that this survey as well as the longer term project will provide information to assist in the restoration and reconstruction of old buildings in the study areas.

H.E Marwan Bin Jassim Al Sarkal, CEO of Shurooq: "We are very proud to be implementing this project which will link Sharjah's heritage areas together, highlighting what Sharjah was like before development of the modern city, and to transform it into a contemporary tourist destination. The project will, when it is completed initiate long term developments in the area that will encourage economic growth."  

The survey will take place from 21st to the 30th January 2012 and will be focussed on Bank Street between Al Hisn and the Corniche including the surrounding parking areas which will be closed on a phased basis over these ten days. The timings of closure will be publicised in advance.

Bank Street will be closed on Friday 27th January one carriageway at a time while the survey is taking place.

All of the parking areas will be closed by 9pm on the night preceeding the day of the survey and will be opened again at 10pm in the evening following.

Parking areas will be closed on a phased basis for a maximum of two days each to minimize the inconvenience to residents and businesses.

The geophysical survey will cause much less disruption than excavation and digging would have involved, and for a much shorter period. Stae of the art technology and non-disruptive techniques will be used , in particular, Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) together with a Magnetometer Survey to assist provide accurate results and findings.

Peter Jackson, Architectural Advisor in His Highness the Ruler's Office noted: "His Highness supports and is encouraging our understanding of our history and its potential to shape the future city, while every effort is being made to maintain and preserve our heritage. Through this survey we are grateful to the University of Southapton for their assistance in providing the data for us to properly develop the historic heart of Sharjah as a meaningful cultural and commercial centre. The fact that a British University is assisting us and studying this historic area is important for the region as it will enhance the reputation of Sharjah's heritage. As the survey takes shape, the Rulers' Office has made every effort possible to ensure the project runs smoothly while minimising any disruptions to Sharjah's residents."

The project is supported by a number of government authorities, including HH Ruler's Office, Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), Sharjah Municipality, The Directorate of Heritage, Public Works Department and Sharjah Police.

The team undertaking this important survey will be led by Dr. Kristian Strutt, Geophysical Researcher in the Archaeological Prospection Services from the University of Southampton, UK.

-Ends-

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© Press Release 2012