For a developer, archaeology presented a challenge, because evaluation showed important remains of prehistoric, Roman, Saxon and medieval date. We could see why development of this site was desirable as it presents a very special place for people to live, but archaeology was a big issue: regionally important and in need of careful management. We therefore worked carefully with the developer and the local planning authority and reasoned a case for excavation (preservation by record) that would hopefully work for all. The archaeological investigation was a resounding success, and the developer was free to build.