Best and most versatile agricultural land
The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) suggests best and most versatile as being "Land in grades 1, 2 and 3a of the Agricultural Land Classification (ALC). ALC is graded from 1-5 and based on yield, range and versatility of use, and need for input." The second sentance does not appear in the 2024 version of the NPPF but was added in the version issued December 2025.
For further information regarding development on agricultural land refer to the UK Gov and Natural England document: Guide to assessing development proposals on agricultural land.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Agricultural tenancy.
- Article 4 direction.
- Change of use class.
- Local development order.
- National planning policy framework.
- Permitted development.
- Permitted development rights for the change of use of agricultural buildings.
- Planning enforcement.
- Planning permission.
- Prior approval.
- Small holding.
- Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (Amendment) (England) Order.
- Use class.
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
A quick introduction to its uses and risks.
Construction Management, 17 June
Government rolls out digital planning tool to all local authorities.
Your views needed - a strategy for the professions, trades and occupations.
Confronting competency, codes, capacity and costs.
The hidden risk in modern construction supply chains.
Construction Management, 10 June
24 months to 14: CITB launches accelerated apprenticeships.
Bridging the gap between clients and contractors
Concerns remain around contractor quality, capability, and delivery.
Construction Management, 10 June.
Heat pumps beat boilers in new home tests.
Building Safety Act implementation in Wales
CIAT to host industry panel on 26 June.
New and updated CLC building safety guidance.
New UK National Buildings Database.