
​City Centre Pre-Works Delap Survey & Stockpile Volumetrics
Aerial documentation and survey data for a remediation contractor ahead of major works. Delivered a site-wide point cloud, orthomosaic, and cut/fill measurements despite tight urban constraints.
Project Overview
Client Type: Remediation Contractor
Location: Manchester, UK
Services: Construction Progress, Stockpile Volumetircs
Deliverables: Aerial Photo/Video, Stockpile Cut/Fill Report, DTM, High-Resolution Orthomosaic
Challenges
Urban Environment & Public Distraction:
Working in a densely populated city centre meant dealing with the challenges of public distraction and managing potential risks due to proximity to surrounding buildings and pedestrian traffic.
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Need for Comprehensive Site Condition Record:
The client required a complete visual and data record of the site before starting work, to protect themselves against future disputes regarding pre-existing site conditions.
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Site Complexity:
The site involved not only buildings but adjacent infrastructure, including roads and nearby structures, making traditional survey methods cumbersome and time-consuming.

Our Approach
Ground Control Network Setup:
To ensure the accuracy of the survey data, we established a network of ground control points (GCPs) across the site. This allowed for precise geo-referencing of drone imagery and data, ensuring survey-grade results suitable for construction and planning purposes.
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Comprehensive Drone Survey:
We performed a detailed drone flight capturing high-resolution images across the site, including key infrastructure areas like roads, buildings, and surrounding areas. We also captured standard photos and video footage for quick visual references at points of interest.
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Detailed Site Data Collection:
The drone imagery was processed into a dense point cloud, orthomosaic, DTM, and stockpile volumetric report. These outputs provided an accurate representation of the site’s topography and existing conditions, crucial for planning and pre-works assessments.
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Efficient Delivery of Data:
We processed the data quickly and efficiently, ensuring that the client received actionable insights wihtin days. The orthomosaic and elevation data were used to assess potential risks and were incorporated into future plans for the site’s remediation work.
Results & Outcomes
Comprehensive Pre-Works Data:
The client now has a complete, independently captured visual and data record of the site’s condition, providing a robust archive for future reference or disputes.
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Rapid Data Processing & Delivery:
Drone survey data was processed and delivered within days, allowing the client to move forward with their work without waiting weeks for traditional survey results.
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Reduced Risk and Liability:
By providing a detailed record of pre-existing site conditions, the client is now protected from potential disputes over any damage caused during their remediation work.
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Minimal Disruption & Safe Data Collection:
Drone surveying allowed for a non-intrusive, fast, and safe method to assess the site in an area that would have been difficult for traditional survey methods, reducing overall project disruption and costs.