The first part of the final synthesis of excavations which took place in advance of the southern bypass in Norwich. The report focuses on six main excavations as well as providing details on the context and history of the project, the research aims and methodology. The evidence recovered ranges from the Mesolithic through to the Late Anglo-Saxon, Medieval and modern periods and includes sites at Bixley, Harford Farm at Caistor St Edmund, Valley Belt in Trowse, Markshall Borrow Pit, Frettenham Lime Co. Quarry, Cringleford and Little Melton. The final two chapters discuss the environmental evidence and a synthesis brings all the information together. Part II: The Anglo-Saxon Cemetery at Harford Farm is also available (EAA 92, 2000).