Archaeological excavation involves destruction of the physical remains of our cultural heritage. Controlled and scientific work by qualified and highly skilled archaeologists enable us to establish a full record of the excavated site. This adds to the corpus of previous archaeological knowledge through inclusion in the central national database. The purpose and relevance of archaeological excavation is to understand past human activity and preserve this information through careful and deliberate recording for future generations.

Archaeological excavation involves the examination of sites approved for development. Information is obtained, while development is proceeding, at locations not otherwise available for such examination. It involves a number of specialised techniques and methodologies including artefact analysis, environmental sampling and scientific dating techniques. Gregory Archaeology specialises in such excavations and establishes a comprehensive record of the areas investigated.

Excavation often follows from preceding archaeological involvement such as , Archaeological Impact Assessment, Visual Amenity Impact Assessment, Geophysical Survey, and Archaeological Test Excavation.