This paper looks at the issue of archaeological remains as a constraint to development within the modern land-use planning system. It examines the application of current national policy guidance found in Planning Policy Guidance Notes PPG15 and PPG16. It also discusses a number of issues raised by the current practices of professional archaeologists (and architectural historians involved with archaeological issues) within the development control process. It concludes that their increased professional involvement requires, in turn, a greater responsibility by those individuals, as expert witnesses, to ensure not only for the content of their letters and written reports but also for the consequences of their recommendations, which all have increasing significance, legally as well as commercially. Furthermore, if quality and reasonableness are to be maintained in balance then the relevant professional bodies will need to review, more carefully, their professional practices and responsibilities.