Our Planning Services in Lincoln & Nottingham: A Refresher on What We Do and How We Can Help

Let’s face it—planning can be one of the most confusing parts of any building project. Whether you’re adding a new extension, converting an outbuilding, or thinking about building something entirely new, one thing’s for sure: You’ll need a solid plan—literally and figuratively.

At AM2 Architects, we help people across Nottinghamshire move from idea to approval with confidence. Our planning services are here to make things easier, clearer, and more achievable—no matter how big or small your vision is.

So... what exactly do we do?

We’re architects, yes—but when it comes to planning, we’re also your guide, your problem-solver, and your liaison with the council. Here’s what we offer as part of our planning support:

• Site visits and surveys to understand your property and surroundings

• Concept design to explore what’s possible and what works best

• Planning drawings for existing and proposed layouts, elevations, sections

• Design and Access Statements where needed

• Planning Portal submissions handled by us

• Follow-ups with the council and any tweaks or clarifications along the way

In short: we manage the process so you don’t have to chase paperwork, guess what’s needed, or lose sleep wondering what the council might say.

What kind of projects do we help with?

We’ve worked on all sorts—from family homes to countryside retreats. If you're based in Lincoln, Nottingham or nearby, there's a good chance we've done something similar to what you're planning.

Here are some of the most common projects we support:

Extensions and Alterations

Want more space? We’ll help you design it in a way that feels natural and beautiful—while making sure it stands a great chance of getting approved. Think:

• Single- and double-storey extensions

• Loft and garage conversions

• Garden rooms and home offices

• Internal redesigns (we're big on maximising what you already have!)

Green Belt Projects

If you’re in a green belt zone, we know how tricky the rules can be. We’ve helped clients:

• Extend homes within green belt policy

• Replace outdated dwellings

• Convert agricultural buildings

• Explore Paragraph 80 options for exceptional new countryside homes

Backland and Infill Development

Have a big garden or a leftover side plot? We help people unlock the hidden value of land they already own—often with thoughtful, policy-compliant homes that sit beautifully within the area.

Conservation and Heritage

We’re used to working on listed buildings and in conservation areas—especially in places like Southwell, West Bridgford, and Newark. These projects need extra care and a collaborative approach with conservation officers—and that’s where our experience really counts.

Where we work

We’ve worked on planning applications across Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire and beyond—from compact urban plots to remote countryside settings. Every area comes with its own set of planning nuances, and because we’ve done this before (many times!), we know how to design with those local policies in mind.

Here are some of the key locations where we regularly support clients through the planning process:

Case Study: Phased Planning Strategy for a Growing Family in Bingham

Our clients in Bingham came to us needing more space to accommodate their large family. The brief was clear: expand the home efficiently, without compromising on quality or timeline. After exploring the loft and garage options, we recommended building above the garage, as it offered more usable space, required fewer structural changes, and reduced impact on the central atrium.

To make the most of the home’s double-height stairwell, we also introduced roof-level skylights, transforming what would normally be a functional corridor into a light-filled, gallery-style feature—elevating the feel of the whole space.

With the clock ticking (the clients had just sold their previous home), we implemented a phased planning approach. First, we submitted a safe and straightforward application for the rear ground floor extension. This allowed them to begin work immediately. Then, we followed with a second application for the front-facing garage extension—more sensitive due to its street elevation.

As a backup, we also designed a loft conversion fallback option, ensuring no time would be lost if planning for the garage extension was refused. The result? A smooth, proactive process with no delays—supported by a well-informed contractor team, aligned with our planning strategy from day one.

Planning is more than paperwork

We believe the best results happen when design and planning go hand-in-hand. That means your home won’t just meet policy—it’ll be something you love living in.

We don't rush. We listen, test ideas, and design around how you want to live—not just what ticks a box. And because we know local planning policy inside and out, we’ll help you take a confident step forward.

Frequently Asked Questions – Planning Services at AM2 Architects

What planning services do you offer?

We provide a full planning support package — from site surveys and concept design to planning drawings, Design & Access Statements, and submitting the application on your behalf. We also liaise with local councils and handle any follow-up or adjustments needed along the way.

Ready to chat?

If you're at the beginning of your project and unsure where to start, drop us a message. Whether you’re exploring your options or already halfway through sketches, we’re happy to jump in and guide you through what’s next.

Get in touch with us here and let’s start planning something great.