Provisional Agricultural Land Classification (ALC) Map for England (replaced April 2026)

Following hot on the heels of the UK Government’s Land Use Framework (LUF) for England published last month the Provisional ALC Map has been replaced by the Predictive ALC Map. This latest mapping was developed to address the lack of inclusion of detailed soil and climate data, which often influences land quality, particularly agricultural production. It also distinguishes between ALC Grades 3a and 3b, a subdivision introduced by MAFF in 1988. According to Cranfield Environment Centre’s report RDE 118 Development of a Predictive Agricultural Land Classification Map for England: "About 60% of England's land area has the same ALC grade as the Provisional ALC map. Around 20% improved by one grade; less than 20% decreased in grade’. Access to the mapping and supporting documents can be found at Predictive Agricultural Land Classification Map for England. This will be an important resource for those planning development to ensure that ‘opportunities to build on low value and and safeguard agricultural land and wildlife habitats are not overlooked’. Understanding the soil resource early in the construction process allows the best outcome for soils as well as delivering benefits to communities and society as a whole.