The Value of 3D and Height Data Maps
3D and height data maps are fast becoming an invaluable tool for developers and planners. Here we
take a look at some uses of such models.
3D Maps
Digital three dimensional models of the entire UK are now available from specialist suppliers. Most
larger cities and towns with the UK have already been mapped and so are readily available. Other
areas can be mapped upon request. 3D models provide a more visually arresting and detailed
representation of the features of an area of land. They can also be supplied in many different height
data digital mapping services in order to ensure their compatibility with the most commonly-used
CAD software.
3D maps can be incredibly accurate (often within + or -50cm) which makes them very useful for
planning and urban design. They are increasingly being used to create photomontages, in
sun/shadow studies, for emergency planning, GIS integration and traffic planning as well as a
visualisation tool.
3D models are often used in conjunction with height data in order to create a triangulated image of
urban environments. Such maps are useful in analysing and assessing the features found on a
particular site and in identifying the environmental impacts of a particular development. They are
also great for creating impressive presentations and improving the quality of planning applications.
Other reasons why 3D maps and height data maps are useful include promoting projects and
developments and they can even increase sales.
Height Data Maps
Height data can be purchased and integrated into existing GIS and CAD software in order to add
another level of detail to a representation of a given area. Such data includes both the built and the
natural environment and can aid modelling, planning and site analysis. Data is available in a range of
resolutions and formats in order to be compatible with the huge variety of software, applications
and skill sets.
Higher resolution height data maps are commonly used for a wide range of applications such as line
of sight investigation, cut and fill scrutiny, flood modelling and terrain visualisation and modelling.
Lower resolution height models are used over larger areas in analysing environmental impacts,
planning pipelines and highways, analysing the water network and risk management. They are also
useful for analysing radio waves, planning land use and developments, managing assets, visualising
landscapes and analysing terrain and drainage.
Pricing and lead time
LiDAR UK maps are rapidly becoming more affordable as more and more of the necessary data is
collected. For most of the larger urban areas of the UK, data is already available and can be provided
for as little as £200 and delivered within around 48 hours.
If new data needs to be collected and prepared, then both the lead time and the cost will obviously
increase. Even so, representations of most areas will be available within a few weeks from specialist
suppliers of 3D maps and height data models.