Sir Robert McAlpine Ltd, a prominent construction and civil engineering company, commissioned Academy Geomatics to conduct detailed surveying works at the Northumbria Specialist Emergency Care Hospital (NSECH) in Cramlington. The project, undertaken in spring 2024, comprised topographical surveying, ground-penetrating radar (GPR), utility mapping and high-density 3D point-cloud scanning.
Working across the UK on complex infrastructure and building projects, Sir Robert McAlpine required robust geospatial data to support both ongoing and future development phases at the live hospital site.
Sir Robert McAlpine faced challenges due to unreliable subsurface utility information and required a unified 3D model with elevations and roof profiles of the hospital. We were selected for our technical expertise, PAS 128 experience and ability to integrate diverse data into a secure digital solution.
We initiated the project by establishing a permanent on-site survey-control network, providing a precise reference framework for all subsequent data capture. This involved:
This phase focused on subsurface infrastructure. We employed advanced ground penetrating radar (GPR) and electromagnetic locating (EML) techniques to conduct a PAS 128-compliant utility survey, paying meticulous attention to complex areas. All spatial data—including topographical features, the 3D point cloud and mapped utilities—were processed and delivered to Sir Robert McAlpine in industry-standard formats such as AutoCAD, Revit and PDF supplemented by panoramic imagery for enhanced virtual site review and aerial imagery for high-level context.
The outputs provided Sir Robert McAlpine with a unified, high-accuracy spatial dataset to support planning, design and construction decision-making. The point cloud and utility data offer valuable insights into potential conflicts and help reduce risk during groundworks.
All spatial data, including topographical features, the 3D point cloud and mapped utilities, were processed and delivered to Sir Robert McAlpine in industry-standard formats.
Our integrated digital-surveying approach enabled the client to visualise the site and structure more effectively while reducing the need for repeat visits. The project was delivered efficiently, and we received positive feedback regarding our responsiveness, technical execution and data quality.
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