What is ALC (Agricultural Land Classification)?
Posted on 2nd May 2025 at 13:04
Is your development scheme on agricultural land or other greenfield uses? If so, you may well need an ALC report to support your planning application, however big or small the proposed development.
At Landscope we are experienced and qualified to help landowners, developers, planners, interest parties and companies to determine the ALC grade of land for development proposals.
As pressure on Local Planning Authorities to identify land for housing, infrastructure and commercial use has increased, the need for analytical reports to help in the assessment of each individual case has also grown. In particular, the main issues that may require consideration, to support a planning application are Agricultural Land Classification, Agricultural Impact Assessment and Drainage.
At Landscope, we have a strong track record in helping to support planning applications and make presentations to Local Planning Authorities on ALC. We have extensive experience not only in providing evidence for developing and assessing Planning Applications but also by acting as an expert witness on ALC at Appeals and Public Inquiries.
What types of scheme require an ALC?
Previously it was the larger schemes which required an ALC, however, today, an increasing number of schemes will require an Agricultural Land Classification as part of the justification.
These include:
* Residential development
* Commercial development
* Road, rail and pipelines
* Renewable energy
* Mineral extraction
Government guidance limits development on Grades 1, 2 and 3a farmland, (known as ‘Best and Most Versatile’). Most development proposals, mineral applications, road and pipeline routes and renewable energy schemes require Agricultural Land Classification reports.
At Landscope we are experienced and qualified to determine the ALC grade of farmland for development proposals, using a mix of desk research and fieldwork. Existing published maps and data do not offer sufficient detail to be reliable on a field-by-field basis. The results of poor ALC reports mean planning applications are more likely to be refused, projects will be delayed (or worse) and costs will rise.
We have the knowledge, experience and qualifications to survey agricultural land and soils to determine and prove the land quality. We can advise you on which land is or is not BMV, when development proposals require ALC reports and how best to present the information. Taking samples from across a proposed development site and then analysing them, we prepare comprehensive reports detailing and providing the classification. We can then provide robust support at planning committees, appeal hearings and inquiries.
Landscope acts for both private clients and Local Planning Authorities as an expert witness on a range of soil and planning related matters. This has given us valuable insight into the requirements for a range of land-based schemes.
Why use Landscope for ALC?
Providing qualified, experienced, professional advice you can trust:
* Experienced across a wide range of projects acting for both private clients and LPAs
* Highly qualified professionally in a range of surveying disciplines - RICS, CAAV as well as the the Institute of Professional Soil Scientists and the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment
* Perspective - from an agricultural business background as well as Planning & Development
* Sam Franklin is a recognised expert, sitting on the Agricultural and Land Drainage Tribunal and regularly gives talks on a range of related subjects
* Landscope has excellent project management skills and processes to ensure projects are well managed and delivered on time.
Other Land Evaluation Services
In addition to ALC reports, Landscope is experienced and qualified to provide other services in support of planning applications:
* Agricultural Impact Assessment
* Soil storage, handling and land restoration
* Drainage and water resources impact
* Planning Appraisals for land-based renewable energy, in particular Field Solar PV and Anaerobic Digester Units
Get in touch with an expert at Landscope today to discuss an ALC report.
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