The objective of this study was to investigate to what extent the land withdrawal from agriculture to non-agricultural purposes influences the efficiency of rural space performance. In this case the efficiency is interpreted as a measure of rationality and economy at settling and use of land, assuming harmonization of joint economic, social, spatial and environmental objectives. Importance of agricultural land conversion in the process of rural development is outlined mainly by acceleration of positive changes in local structures. Such changes should be considered as an important factor shaping the socio-economic processes towards sustainable development. Main reason to deal with the problem is the elaboration of ideas to formulating a new paradigm of shaping sustainable development in rural areas surrounding large agglomerations and marginal soils and also the rules of its implementation.