To protect the best and most versatile agricultural land within
Northern Ireland.
High quality agricultural land is an important resource. Once developed, even for other open space uses, the return to viable agricultural use is rarely feasible. It is important to protect, as far as practicable, the best and most versatile agricultural land from development.
The quality of agricultural land will be an important consideration in the formulation of development plans. Where possible in zoning land for development, planning policy will be to avoid the loss of high grade land. Particular consideration will be given to:
maintaining compact settlements;
directing development where possible to areas of poorer agricultural quality land; and
encouraging the re-use of redundant or derelict land.
The potential loss of good or versatile agricultural land will be a material factor which will be given considerable weight when considering applications for development.
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