THE fact that archaeological investigations have begun on part of the site in Cirencester that has been earmarked for 2,500 new homes will come as a great disappointment to those who are opposed to the development.

However, even though investigatory work has started, it is not conclusive evidence that the development will go ahead.

An archaeological investigation is required by district planners due to the town’s considerable Roman history and is part of the vital planning application process.

Were significant discoveries to be made then the development would have to somehow work around them. Perhaps the plans would be abandoned altogether.

Many residents opposed to the development may be secretly keeping their fingers crossed that something substantial is uncovered in the archaeological investigation, to halt work and give them more time to stop the houses from ever being built.

Workers have already had to overcome one hurdle before the dig had properly begun. While excavating the trenches, they were concerned that they had discovered, and possibly disturbed, wildlife in the form of badgers or foxes.

Respectfully, those working on the site stopped what they were doing and investigated.

They soon discovered they were operating far enough away from any significant wildlife to not be a danger or a disturbance to the animals.