How can a survey mitigate risks in coastal development projects?
posted 27th November 2024
Coastal regions present unique challenges when it comes to construction projects, affected by both terrestrial and marine factors. In recent years, geospatial technologies have been introduced to the land surveying industry, transforming coastal construction, improving risk management and helping property owners identify new opportunities.
What are Geospatial Surveys?
Geospatial surveys rely on numerous state of the art tools and software systems that capture, store, analyse, and manage all types of data. The technologies used can include Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Global Positioning Systems (GPS), remote sensing, along with online mapping tools. These surveys provide valuable insights to assist with decision-making when it comes to the planning of your new coastal development project.
Risk Management in Coastal Development Projects
Coastal areas are susceptible to numerous hazards from storms and erosion, to hurricanes and tsunamis. Risk assessment is essential before any planning and building takes place, identifying these hazards and mitigating any risks. This is where these surveys come into play. Surveys helps with:
- Flood risk assessment - analysing flood risk, predicting the impact of rising sea levels, along with storm surges. This enables architects to design your property to ensure that they can withstand these events
- Erosion - using satellite imagery and aerial surveys, such as drone technology, we can assess any erosion patterns. This is valuable to ensure your build remains stable
- Environmental impact - surveys are valuable in evaluating the potential environmental impact on coastal development projects. Surveys can visualise the projects impact on natural habitats and plan mitigation opportunities.
Geospatial Survey Opportunities
Geospatial surveys offer more than managing the risk of coastal development projects. They are also useful in identifying opportunities, optimising construction processes, while improving sustainability. When it comes to opportunities, these surveys help with:
- Site Selection - by analysing the topographical and bathymetric data, these surveys identify the optimal site for your build, while minimising environmental disruption. The advanced GIS models help to identify various scenarios that aid in the planning process of your build
- Manage Resources - these surveys can be used to manage resources effectively through the monitoring of fleet movements
Challenges
Integrating geospatial surveys in coastal development projects comes with its fair share of challenges. These challenges include needing sophisticated software, experienced and skilled surveyors, along with up to date information. This requires specialist software, such as BIM models, providing a clear visualisation of the site.
While these surveys do come with their fair share of challenges, the team at MB Survey Solutions have found ways to mitigate these challenges, offering excellent benefits when it comes to surveying for coastal construction projects.
Conclusion
As we look towards the future of coastal development projects and geospatial technologies, we can only see the demand continuing to grow as climate changes continues to change local landscapes throughout the world. The ability to adapt to these changes depends on accurate and precise surveys, providing a proactive approach to your development project.
These surveys are indispensable when it comes to any coastal build, providing valuable insights that help to effectively plan and implement your project with confidence, while reducing risks associated with coastal environments. Are you planning a coastal build? Get in touch with MB Survey Solutions today and see how we can help you plan and build your new project with confidence.