Best and Most Versatile Agricultural Land IPGN

The Best and Most Versatile Agricultural Land Interim Planning Guidance Note (IPGN) (PDF, 262 KB) was approved by Cabinet in February 2026.

About this guidance

This IPGN explains how Fenland District Council will assess development proposals that affect Best and Most Versatile (BMV) agricultural land.

Fenland contains some of the most productive agricultural land in the country. This guidance recognises the importance of protecting these soils and ensuring they are used responsibly, while also acknowledging that development may sometimes be necessary.

What the guidance covers

The guidance sets out a clear and proportionate approach to managing development on BMV land, based on the principles of avoiding, minimising and mitigating harm. It explains how proposals will be assessed and what information applicants are expected to provide.

In some circumstances, the guidance also explains when additional measures may be appropriate, including contributions towards local agricultural productivity initiatives. Applicants will be expected to demonstrate that development affecting BMV land is necessary, clearly justified, and designed to reduce impacts as far as possible.

Consultation and updates

As this is an interim guidance document and does not introduce new planning policy, no formal public consultation was carried out before it was approved.  The Council welcomes feedback from anyone using the guidance. It will be reviewed and updated where necessary, for example if national planning policy changes, new local policy is adopted, or further clarification is needed to support effective decision‑making while the new Local Plan is being prepared.

Feedback can be sent via email to planningpolicy@fenland.gov.uk