In reply to Dynamodux:
Well done Lee, stick with it, it becomes quite addictive though!
I've currently got two venues on the go (one quite large, perhaps 30+ problems the other a little smaller) and neither are that remote to 'civilisation'! Both schist so able to responsibly apply a little wire brushing, followed by softer nylon type brushes. Take a pair of clear glasses to protect your eyes.
The following applies specifically to Scotland, for the larger venue I contacted SNH (Scottish Natural Heritage) for confirmation on the areas status and my proposed activities, all good from them. Followed that with an enquiry to MCOS to check if the area has/had any notes of interest etc. Then checked the SMC database of new routes (last 8 years or so) but as these are essentially boulders not routes no reference was found.
Following the above just gives you an outline of best practise I guess, some developers may go further than this, others less so.
A final point on 'new venues' which has already been said but for those motivated enough there is still loads of potential for new routes/boulders etc in the UK. Get an OS map, I.D unknown crags, outcrops, scree fields and go take a look!