Agricultural Land Classification
Agricultural Land Classification (ALC) is a system used in England and Wales to determine the quality of land based on its suitability for agricultural use.
For developers, understanding ALC is essential in making informed decisions about land use planning, zoning, and sustainable development. By undertaking the ALC work early in the planning process, developers can identify optimal locations for projects, comply with regulatory standards and ensure responsible environmental conservation.
Agricultural Land Classification grading
In England and Wales, the ALC system classifies agricultural land into one of five grades, with Grade 1 land being the highest quality and Grade 5 the lowest. The quality of land is assessed according to the extent to which long term physical or chemical characteristics limit the suitability of the land for different agricultural uses.
A different system of classification called the Land Capability for Agriculture, is applied in Scotland.
Planning authorities and Agricultural Land Classification
The National Planning Policy Framework requires that planning polices and decisions recognise the value of the best and most versatile Grades 1, 2 and 3a agricultural land. Surveys to inform these classifications therefore help to identify areas of sensitive high-quality land and where possible take them into account to protect these resources, as far as possible, in the early design for a site.
The collection of the soils data as part of the ALC survey also provides the core data to be included in the development of Soil Management Plans which are used to protect soil materials and the quality of agricultural land during temporary construction activities. The obligations within the development of these plans is important in demonstrating the commitment by applicants to reduce as far as possible the impact of developments on soils and agricultural land quality.
Assessing Agricultural Land Quality - Our services
Our environmental specialists assess agricultural land quality on projects where land is subject to proposed alternative uses to agriculture. With a network of offices across the UK, we can provide localised support, aligned with the planning authority in question.
Our services include:
Desk based surveys - Phase 1
Field surveys
Interpretive reports and recommendations
Inputs to planning and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) chapters
Regulatory liaison
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Key contacts
Julia Tindale
Operations Director – EIA & Sustainability
David Gemmell
Director - Ground Risk and Remediation
