In 1990 the Department of the Environment published Planning Policy Guidance Note 16: Archaeology and Planning (PPG 16), which identified archaeology as a 'material consideration' in the planning process. This document is the current guidance for archaeological matters and can be viewed by using the link on this page.

In line with this government guidance Cambridgeshire Archaeology Planning and Countryside Advice team (CAPCA) provides archaeological advice relating to the planning process to the Local Planning Authorities, developers and their agents, as well as the general public.

Archaeological investigation can be time-consuming and, in accordance with the guidance contained in PPG 16, the expenses involved are borne by the developer. We strongly recommend that developers seek early advice from this office about potential impacts of development proposals. Early consultation with the CAPCA archaeologists ensures that any necessary archaeological work will not create unexpected problems.

More detailed guidance can be downloaded from this page, including a flow chart which indicates the Development Control process.