Topographical and Measured Building Surveys

Topographical and measured building surveys capture spatial information for design, planning and construction. Using established survey methods such as laser scanning, GPS positioning and aerial data capture where appropriate, survey teams can produce accurate records of:

• External infrastructure and operational constraints
• Ground levels and changes in elevation
• Building footprints and structural features
• Access roads, yards and circulation routes
• Drainage layouts and below-ground service routes where identifiable
• Boundary conditions and adjacent structures

Project teams commonly use this information to support planning applications, extensions, plant installations, refurbishment works and redevelopment projects.

Measured and 3D survey outputs can also support digital modelling of existing buildings. These records help improve design coordination, reduce clashes, support refurbishment planning and provide a clearer basis for working within complex industrial and temperature-controlled environments.

Ground Risk and Contamination Assessment

Understanding ground conditions is a key part of pre-construction planning. Ground risk and contamination assessments help identify conditions that may affect development, remediation requirements, foundation design, site safety or future land use.

Ambrey Baker supports coordinated geo-environmental investigations that can include:

• Review of historic site use and potential contaminant sources
• Preliminary ground risk assessment
• Soil and groundwater investigation
• Ground gas monitoring where required
• Assessment of environmental constraints that may affect development

Recognised UK legislation typically informs this work, guidance and standards, including Part IIA of the Environmental Protection Act 1990, the Environment Agency’s Land Contamination Risk Management (LCRM) guidance, BS 5930 for ground investigations and BS 10175 for the investigation of potentially contaminated sites.

Early identification of ground conditions allows project teams to plan investigations, address risks sooner and respond more effectively to planning or regulatory requirements. The Environment Agency’s LCRM guidance sets out a risk-based approach to assessing and managing historic land contamination, starting with a preliminary risk assessment.