Land Surveyor Nottingham: 135,000m² Topographical Survey in Keyworth Using Drone & GNSS
- Landtech Surveys
- 9 hours ago
- 5 min read
When developers begin assessing land for future development, accurate survey information is one of the first and most important requirements. Recently Landtech Surveys completed a large-scale topographical survey in Keyworth, Nottinghamshire, covering approximately 135,000 square metres of grazing land alongside 600 metres of public highway.
The survey was commissioned by a local developer and landowner as part of an early feasibility study for potential future development. By combining modern drone surveying technology with traditional GNSS surveying techniques, we were able to deliver accurate, detailed survey data quickly and efficiently.
If you're searching for a Land Surveyor in Nottingham or Nottinghamshire, this project demonstrates how we approach surveys of all sizes using the latest surveying equipment.
A Large-Scale Survey Near Nottingham
The site, located on the outskirts of Keyworth, currently consists of open grazing land used by cattle, with several recent residential developments located nearby.
In total, the survey covered approximately 135,000 square metres—roughly the equivalent of 19 football pitches—as well as around 600 metres of adjoining highway, including sections of national speed limit road.
As with every project, our aim was to provide the client with a comprehensive and accurate topographical survey that could be used confidently by architects, planning consultants and engineers during the feasibility stage of the proposed development.
Capturing Every Detail
To support future planning and design work, we recorded a wide range of existing features across both the highway and the farmland.
These included:
Road edges and carriageway extents
Kerbs and road verges
Gullies and drainage features
Manholes and utility covers
BT poles and street furniture
Fence lines and field boundaries
Hedgerows and mature trees
Ground levels across the site
Existing vegetation and site features
Producing an accurate record of the existing landscape allows design teams to make informed decisions before progressing with planning applications.
Why We Used Both a Drone and GNSS Survey Equipment
Every survey is different, so choosing the right combination of equipment is essential.
For this project, we used our DJI Matrice RTK drone to capture high-resolution aerial imagery across the open grazing land. Drone surveying allows large areas to be captured much faster than traditional surveying methods while also producing a detailed orthophoto that provides an excellent visual overview of the entire site.
Before the drone flight, we established a series of Ground Control Points (GCPs) using our Trimble GNSS receiver. These accurately surveyed control points ensure the aerial data is correctly positioned and suitable for engineering and planning purposes.
While the drone was ideal for surveying the open fields, we chose to survey the roadside features, verges and slightly overgrown hedgerows using the Trimble GNSS receiver. Vegetation can sometimes affect aerial models, so collecting these features directly on the ground ensured the finished survey maintained the level of accuracy our clients expect.
Rather than relying on a single surveying method, combining drone technology with GNSS surveying allows us to deliver the best possible results.
Working Around Curious Cattle
One of the more memorable moments during the survey had nothing to do with the technology.
Because the site was actively used for grazing cattle, our Ground Control Point targets quickly became the centre of attention. As soon as a target sheet was positioned in the field, one or two curious cows would wander over to investigate. They sniffed them, licked them and generally made sure they knew exactly what we were doing before allowing us to continue!
Fortunately, they were more inquisitive than troublesome, and after a little patience we were able to complete the control survey without any issues.
It's these little moments that make every survey different and remind us that no two sites are ever quite the same.
Surveying a Live Highway Safely
Part of the project involved surveying approximately 600 metres of highway, including sections of national speed limit road.
As with all highway surveys, safety remained our highest priority throughout the day.
Our surveyors wore full PPE and carefully planned the work to minimise the amount of time spent working close to live traffic. The combination of drone technology and GNSS surveying also helped reduce the amount of time required on the carriageway compared with traditional surveying methods.
From Site Survey to Delivered Drawings
The fieldwork was completed in a single day.
Once back in the office, the survey data was processed and quality checked before being supplied to the client just a couple of days later.
The completed deliverables included:
Detailed topographical survey in DWG format
PDF drawing for easy viewing and sharing
Providing information quickly allows design teams to maintain momentum and progress projects without unnecessary delays.
Views Across Nottingham
Although the survey itself was relatively straightforward, one of the unexpected highlights of the day was the location itself.
Being positioned on higher ground meant the site offered impressive views across Nottingham and the surrounding countryside. It's always nice to pause for a moment and appreciate the surroundings before getting back to work—one of the many perks of working outdoors across different parts of the country.
Why Developers Choose Drone Surveys
Drone surveys have become an increasingly popular option for large development sites because they offer several important advantages:
Rapid data collection across large areas
Reduced time spent working on site
High-resolution orthophotography
Excellent visual record of existing conditions
Accurate mapping when combined with GNSS ground control
Faster delivery of survey information
For larger rural sites like this one, drone technology provides significant efficiency while still delivering the accuracy required for planning and engineering projects.
Land Surveyors Covering Nottingham, Nottinghamshire and Beyond
Although this project was completed in Keyworth, LandTech Surveys regularly undertake topographical surveys, drone surveys and engineering surveys throughout Nottingham, West Bridgford, Beeston, Newark, Mansfield, Retford and across the wider Nottinghamshire area.
We also work nationwide, providing accurate survey data for developers, architects, engineers, planning consultants, local authorities and private landowners.
Whether your project involves a small residential plot or a large development site, we can tailor our surveying approach to suit your requirements.
Looking for a Land Surveyor in Nottingham?
If you're planning a development, purchasing land or need an accurate topographical survey anywhere in Nottingham or Nottinghamshire, we'd be happy to help.
Using the latest Trimble GNSS equipment and DJI Matrice RTK drone technology, we deliver reliable, accurate survey data that helps projects move forward with confidence.
To discuss your project or request a free, no-obligation quotation, visit www.landtechsurveys.co.uk and get in touch with our team today.
FAQs
1. Why was a topographical survey required in Keyworth?The survey was commissioned as part of a feasibility study for potential future development. It provides accurate site information that architects, engineers and planning consultants can use during the early design and planning stages.
2. Why use a drone for such a large survey?Drone surveying allows large areas to be captured quickly while producing high-resolution aerial imagery and an orthophoto. When combined with GNSS ground control, it provides accurate mapping suitable for planning and engineering projects.
3. Why wasn't the entire survey completed using the drone?While the drone efficiently surveyed the open fields, slightly overgrown hedgerows and road verges were measured using a Trimble GNSS receiver. This ensured the highest possible accuracy for ground levels and features that can be obscured by vegetation.
4. How long did the survey take?The fieldwork was completed in a single day. After processing and quality checks, the finished DWG and PDF drawings were delivered to the client within a couple of days.
5. Do you only carry out land surveys in Nottingham?No. Although this project was completed in Keyworth, we undertake surveys throughout Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and across the UK, supporting developers, architects, engineers, utilities and private clients with accurate surveying services.