Drone technology used in Thurrock to inspect highways
The council has trialled the technology to gather information more safely and efficiently.
Thurrock Council has trialled the use of drone technology to inspect highway structures in the area.
Specialist drone surveys have been carried out on Dunstable Road and St Margarets Road, where traditional inspections can be challenging due to dense vegetation, steep embankments and confined spaces.
High-resolution drone surveys, carried out with contractor ProDroneWorx, were used to capture detailed imagery and condition information from areas that would normally require officers to enter difficult-to-access environments.
The technology use advanced imaging and GPS to create detailed digital records of the structures and help identify defects that may need investigation.
The trial has provided engineers with information while reducing the need for staff to be in potentially hazardous locations.
Cllr Richard Bingley, Leader of Thurrock Council said: “Using new technology like this can help us inspect our highway infrastructure more safely, quickly and efficiently.
“These surveys give our engineers detailed information without needing staff to enter difficult or hazardous locations, helping us identify issues earlier and make better decisions about maintenance and repairs.
“It is a good example of how we can use innovation to improve the way we look after important infrastructure across Thurrock.”