Best And Most Versatile Land

Agricultural land encompasses areas used for livestock rearing and crop production. As defined by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), it includes arable land, permanent crops, and permanent pastures. Globally, agricultural land covers around 38% of the Earth’s surface, while in the UK, it constitutes approximately 70% of the total land area.

The term “agricultural land classification” (ALC) pertains to a system established by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food. This system categorises agricultural land based on its physical or chemical attributes and their long-term impact on agricultural utilisation. Grades range from 1 (excellent quality) to 5 (very poor quality), with grade 3 further divided into agricultural subgrades 3a and 3b. Refer to “Grade 1-5” and “Subgrade 3a and 3b” for detailed classifications.

The concept of “best and most versatile land” refers to land classified as grade 1, 2, or 3a within the Agricultural Land Classification framework. This land is recognised as the most adaptable, productive, and efficient for delivering crops, both for food and non-food purposes. (Ref: The HS2 London-West Midlands Environmental Statement, published by the Department for Transport in November 2013.)