Geomatics

Mapping projects are crucial to what we do. This year we have been working for various partners on a range of exciting projects.

Our Geomatics team are experts who help to plan and model coastal defences through the collection, analysis and presentation of a range of geographical data. The surveys that are carried out vary from building and infrastructure to land surveys. This vital data helps to support communities, businesses and environments for generations to come.

Day to day operations have experienced a positive progression this year as the Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) service has been successfully integrated into both Coastal Monitoring and Construction Site Monitoring. With this in place our monitoring systems are even smoother and more practical to implement.

Demand for topographic surveys in highway, residential and open space landscaping projects continues to grow for our team and they have recently introduced their new service of Underground Utility Mapping. This service will benefit our partners’ understanding of underground utility networks which will help guide project design.

North Portsea Island slipways during construction

Highlights of the Period

A 20 acre Topographic and Utility Survey of the Golden Grove Estate, Southampton.

Laser Scanning a 17th Century Wall on the Southsea Coastal Scheme 3D mapping Hook Lake Nature Reserve with the help from our top of the range UAV’s

Geomatics

Image shows a Geomatics survey output of North Portsea Island, shoreline and slipways

A topographic survey is the recording of the precise location (co-ordinates: easting, northing and elevation) including all the features in the area.

The final product is a highly accurate 2D or 3D map which is used as a basis to model and plan any upcoming design or construction works.

Every ‘topo’ that our Geomatics Team undertakes is unique to the area, but all surveys reflect a true representation of the site.

Storm Monitoring and Response

Big storms hit the UK in 2022 and took their toll on sea defences across the country. Our assets in all our regions experienced damage and disturbance. Fortunately, we have excellent resources in place to respond to the effects of extreme weather.

Coastal Incident Officers are our eyes and ears before and during storm

events. They are a first point of contact to our partners for up to date information on tide levels, beach and weather conditions. As significant coastal events are forecast, they check the deployment of flood equipment and help to ensure that our local communities are kept safe.