In this article, we’re going to look at 10 typical examples of geospatial surveying being used to gather data and inform decisions, designs, planning, legislation, our futures and more…  

Utility surveys at planning stage and urban upgrade projects

Underground utilities surveys are among the most useful surveys in the planning stage of construction projects, locating the positioning and depth of various underground services and channels, to ensure that delays and hazards are minimised. 

They are also essential in urban upgrade projects, where new technologies are being introduced and installed in built environments. The location of existing services has to be known in order for new technologies – for example fibreoptic broadband or water and sewer upgrades – to be installed underground and aligned with existing routes.

Flood risk management – geospatial expertise needed

One of the biggest concerns about housing development in the UK is the potential use of floodplains and areas prone to waterlogging or flooding for building. Flood risk management is another area where geospatial surveying can be extremely useful at the planning stage, mapping areas of concern and identifying how flooding can be mitigated against, or avoided altogether, by the location of the project.

Measuring water resources

Water is also a huge natural resource and its management is an integral part of the UK’s water supply to households and industry. Accurately measuring water resources is an important part of that management process. Hydrographic surveys can measure riverbed levels, or survey reservoir capacities, to provide detailed data for dredge planning and flood/waste modelling too.

Port projects

Hydrographic surveys can also be used in harbour or port projects, to ascertain if safe passage can be achieved for ships, so they will be able to navigate safety to dock. Many estuaries change over time, with silting and other geographical shifts, and monitoring of this using surveying techniques is an essential element of maritime construction.

Coastal protection

Monitoring land near the sea is also a vital part of coastal protection. In instances where coastal erosion and weathering are causing major changes to our coastlines, geospatial surveyors can chart these changes and define the pace of change and measures that will need to be installed, as defence against such land loss.  

Trains, traffic and infrastructure

For new rail transportation infrastructure, such as metro links or high-speed rail, geospatial surveying can be used to plan efficient routes, analyse the environmental impact of traffic and manage land acquisition, to be traversed by the tracks.

Bridge construction projects deploy a variety of surveying techniques in their design and construction process – from land surveying of the bridge approaches to underwater surveys of the riverbed’s geography, if pylons or stanchions are going to be required as bridge supports.

The construction of tunnels is one of the most complex types of infrastructure project, whether they are for road or rail routes. A project such as Crossrail would employ 3D modelling and other geospatial technology to monitor the precise boring and construction of underground tunnels, to ensure they integrate with existing infrastructure.

Protecting the environment

Geospatial surveying is essential for environmental protection and conservation work. From tracking deforestation to streamlining land management, surveyors can help to instigate projects such as replanting, to ensure efficiency and sustainability in the landscape are preserved for future generations.

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This year’s invitation list expanded beyond the traditional membership, bringing together Tier 1 contractors, clients of survey companies, and other key industry stakeholders. The result was a lively, engaged gathering of serious-minded geospatial professionals, decision makers, and influencers, all committed to the future of the profession.

Key decisions and the President’s Award

The formal AGM business was chaired by TSA President Claire Fenwick, who oversaw several important updates, including a significant change to TSA’s Articles and Rules. For the first time, Affiliate Members will now be eligible to stand for Council — an important step toward broader representation and sector-wide collaboration.

Claire also presented the President’s Award, sponsored by Lockton, to Melvin Penwill of KOREC, recognising his enthusiastic and tireless work in supporting training at The Survey School. His contribution continues to make a meaningful impact across the sector.

Shaping a national awareness campaign

One of the day’s central themes emerged as Oliver Viney, TSA Vice President, introduced the Stakeholder Session. He was joined by Kirsty Ostell, Managing Director of O Agency, who highlighted the vital role of professional marketing expertise and experience in raising the profile of geospatial professionals on a national scale.

The vision is clear: the profession needs greater visibility, clearer messaging, and better public understanding. As both speakers emphasised, this change will take time. It is not going to happen overnight, but will involve structured input and a clear plan to be carried out over years rather than months.

TSA has committed to this long-term approach. However, the campaign’s success will depend on sustained support and funding from across the profession. Members should contact TSA CEO Rachel Tyrrell or any Council member for more information on how to contribute.

Connection, conversation and planning ahead

After the morning’s discussions, attendees enjoyed a tour of Twickenham, followed by lunch, a welcome opportunity to continue conversations informally and build on the energy of the sessions. Smaller group meetings took place in the afternoon, with considerable enthusiasm around shaping the next phases of the awareness campaign.

The shared sense of purpose was summarised powerfully by Oliver Viney, who stated:

“Our profession shapes the nation’s infrastructure, fuels innovation, and underpins every major decision about our built and natural environments – yet its value is still widely underestimated. We’re here to change that. By uniting behind a bold, UK wide campaign, we can elevate the profile of our skills, attract the next generation of talent, strengthen standards, and secure our rightful place at the top tables. Together, we can make geospatial surveying recognised as the critical national infrastructure it truly is – not someday, but starting right now.”

What attendees said

When asked about the best part of the day, the feedback spoke volumes:

• “The feeling I got with a unified call to action was so inspiring and filled me with confidence for the future of our profession.”
• “Gathering and harnessing the passion and unity desire in the room!”
• “The open and frank discussion around important issues that need to be actioned.”
• “Good to see a major campaign of this scale launched so effectively. A significant amount of work has clearly gone in behind the scenes, and it was presented in a way that genuinely engaged the room. Credit to the TSA team and the speakers on the day, a well delivered and professionally run session.”

The 46th AGM marked not only an important moment for the Association, but also a turning point for the wider geospatial community – one defined by unity, ambition, and the shared commitment to tell the story of a profession that underpins the nation’s future.

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In the first of a series of snapshots discussing various aspects of surveying, we ask: “Where would we be without underground utility surveys?”   

Essential groundwork

Underground utility surveys, also known as PAS128 surveys are an integral part of the construction process. Without them, it would be much more difficult to ascertain the suitability of a site for building projects, or to understand the location of services and potential obstacles underground.

The layout of any development depends heavily on the resources and services already present. Ideally, you don’t design a housing development on a site criss-crossed by underground electric cables and sewer pipes. That isn’t to say such obstacles are insurmountable, but an underground utility survey could identify them well in advance, allowing designers to proceed accordingly.

Under investigation

Underground surveys are carried out by qualified professionals using geospatial technology. Surveyors use electromagnetic detection, GPR (Ground Penetrating Radar), GNSS and total stations to create a detailed, multilayered digital map of what lies beneath. The construction process can be fraught with unforeseen challenges, but having the assurance of a PAS128 utility survey goes a long way towards minimising these risks.

Construction projects need underground utility surveys (or PAS128 surveys) to be carried out before building work can start. A surveyor will locate, identify and map most utility services beneath the surface. Most underground utilities, such as electric cabling, telecoms, drainage, gas, water, and fibre optic services, can typically be found, along with other buried hazards, voids and other subterranean features.

In a world where surveys are not carried out, expensive design changes or costly diversion of services might be needed mid-project – if existing services are found to  obstruct foundation layouts or conflict with planned utility routes servicing the development.    

Build on solid foundations

A world without underground surveys would mean far more exploratory, preparatory work before any design or construction could begin.

Our ‘depth of knowledge’ and expertise in underground utility surveying is reinforced by our commitment to ensuring our member companies carry out their work to the highest standard. TSA has created a PAS128 accreditation scheme called PUMA (PAS128 Utility Mapping Accreditation) for all its utility surveying members. PUMA provides a defined benchmark and creates a national standard for best practice. It demonstrates continuous professional improvement, gives clients confidence in survey quality, and can save time and costly delays.

To find out more about our PUMA accreditation, get in touch with us today.

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A stadium with humble beginnings

Before it became a world-renowned rugby venue, the site at Twickenham looked very different. In 1907, the Rugby Football Union purchased just over ten acres of local market gardens for £5,572 – a decision that split opinion at the time. William Williams, the committee member who fought hardest for the purchase, jokingly referred to the land as “Billy Williams’ Cabbage Patch” and the nickname stuck!

From these modest beginnings, over the decades, it has taken on a whole range of roles: cattle grazed it during the First World War, it was a civil defence depot in the Second, and then a construction project which was fraught with planning challenges. By 2005, with the opening of a major new South Stand, the stadium reached an 82,000 capacity – becoming the second-largest stadium in the UK and the biggest in world rugby.

A venue built for big moments

Today, Twickenham’s legacy stretches far beyond sports. It has hosted concerts by global icons, including the Rolling Stones and Lady Gaga. In 2024, the stadium underwent its first-ever rebrand, becoming the Allianz Stadium Twickenham. Yet despite the new name, its identity remains unchanged: a venue built for momentous occasions, making it the perfect home for our TSA AGM. 

Why does the setting matter?  It lifts the ambition.

Why this TSA AGM stands out

On 25 March, TSA members will gather not only to conduct the formal business of the association, but to take part in something much bigger.

This year’s AGM will include:

• Key discussions on the issues shaping the future of our profession
• Updates on TSA projects designed to support and benefit members
• Opportunities to connect with fellow geospatial professionals from across the country

Importantly, members will join invited geospatial leaders, influencers, and policy makers to help shape a major new national marketing campaign. This will be the first discovery phase of the project – and your ideas, experience, and perspective will play an essential role in what comes next.

An inspirational setting

Beyond the AGM itself, the stadium offers an experience that few other venues can match. With 34 flexible meeting spaces and more than 150 pitch-view executive boxes, it is one of the most versatile corporate venues in the country.

Attendees will also have the chance to take a stadium tour, giving you the opportunity to explore behind the scenes of this extraordinary place – from the rich history of the old “cabbage patch” to the modern home of English rugby. The World Rugby Museum, housed onsite, features jerseys from rugby’s earliest international fixtures, artefacts dating back to 1871, and the iconic Webb Ellis Cup.

Join us on 25 March

Allianz Stadium Twickenham has hosted more than a century of moments that mattered. On 25 March, we’re excited to add another.

We look forward to welcoming our members for a day of insight, collaboration, and forward-thinking conversation – all in one of the most inspiring venues in the UK. If you are keen to join this conversation and join a geospatial collective, please get in touch with us via email at office@tsa-uk.org.uk.

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Making a great team

Since TSA’s formation in 1979, including the current Council, a total of 94 individuals have served as Council members and Directors of the association.  They have all brought a huge variety of skill, experience and particular passions that have prompted them to stand and get further involved.  Council drives everything that TSA does, so having a variety of characters around the table once a quarter guarantees lively debate.

Collectively the Council has a wealth of experience and knowledge of the geospatial profession, which they can share in their roles as TSA representatives and ambassadors. They also have specialist knowledge in other sectors too, such as finance, business or marketing, which also contributes to their work steering the association in the right direction.

Stronger together

As well as keeping up-to-date with current developments and new thinking on surveying methods, there are many other aspects to their roles. In addition to steering TSA’s direction, aims and ethos, TSA is also involved in lobbying government departments when appropriate, as per our work regarding equipment theft and other agencies – such as the Environment Agency – regarding policies that are likely to affect or involve the surveying profession.

Representatives from TSA also regularly meet with RICS and CICES on a range of issues and have collectively established Survey Liaison Group (SLG). This group convenes at regular intervals to examine matters of mutual interest. Council makes sure that TSA is doing the best for its members and for its profession. TSA is at the forefront of this effort by investing in the acquisition of The Survey School in 2014 and the creation of Geospatial Apprenticeships and providing comprehensive education and training opportunities. By emphasising the critical importance of geospatial surveying, TSA is paving the way for young individuals to explore and pursue fulfilling careers in this dynamic industry. Council shapes this development, so that members can truly benefit from being part of something that provides solutions to surveying challenges, with a clear vision of the sector’s future.

To find out more about TSA’s Council, visit our website.

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Working towards excellence

As part of our ongoing education initiative and the launch of the new Become a Surveyor website, we’ve looked at how to map out a career in surveying in a simple, informative way. Our route map sets out the various paths available to budding surveyors. There are three distinct routes to a successful career as a geospatial surveyor. You can choose to work, to study or to ‘earn and learn’.

If you choose to work, you’ll become a trainee surveyor. This will lead to hands-on instruction from your employer, and you can attend the TSA Surveying Course at The Survey School. You can then progress to becoming an assistant surveyor, which brings with it a new raft of responsibilities and the ProQual Diploma, an experience-based Level 3 qualification. This can then lead to becoming a fully-fledged Surveyor. The Survey School’s range of specialist courses can extend existing knowledge with an injection of short, subject-specific courses too. With increased experience comes seniority, and this can eventually lead to roles such as Principal Surveyor, Survey Project Manager or even becoming a business owner.

Studying towards success

Choosing to study is a more defined pathway and one many students in many sectors will be familiar with. This will involve taking A Levels in subjects relevant to surveying, such as maths, geography and design, or T Levels in technical areas such as design, surveying and planning, or Design Engineer Construct (DEC). This can then lead on to study for a Bachelor’s Degree in Geography, Civil Engineering or another related subject. It could also lead to studying for a Master’s Degree in Geospatial. By this point on the pathway, students will be fully-qualified surveyors, where they can then follow the same routes as the ‘choose to work’ path.

Learning while you’re earning

Another option is to become an apprentice. The Level 3 Geospatial Survey Technician was created specifically for this purpose. You can also combine work with study via a Degree Apprenticeship and later you can even undertake a Master’s Apprenticeship.

Our route map illustrates the flexible career routes available to candidates, which provides the freedom to build a career that fits your goals. Starting on one pathway doesn’t limit you. As you can see from the diagram, you can switch to another route at any time, to continue your career growth in a way that suits you.

To find out more about becoming a surveyor, visit our new website or get in touch for more information about careers in surveying. 

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Promotion, guidance and insight

There are numerous advantages to joining TSA via the range of memberships available – from Full and Associate to Affiliate, Supplier and Academic. These categories provide a handy description of the different elements of the wider surveying profession – which TSA brings together.

Joining TSA includes benefits for members, old and new. TSA promotes the importance and value of proven geospatial surveying skills and standards directly to clients and client-facing organisations. It’s also important that the profession is promoted to young people and that the rewards of a career in surveying are obvious to anyone considering it.

We also offer free-to-attend technical and business seminars, and huge discounts on surveying courses at The Survey School in Worcester. Our Continuous Company Development (CCD) initiative has been running since 2009 for our Full Members and is a way of encouraging members to be well-run businesses and great places to work.

Events and opportunities

TSA members are kept up-to-date with fresh professional insights, guidance and the latest developments in cutting-edge technology. They are also informed of opportunities for collaboration with other members of TSA’s community and the many benefits that pooling their skillsets can bring. This is enhanced by networking opportunities at our events throughout the year.

From our regular Health and Safety seminars to our annual Conference and AGM, there are so many opportunities to get together with fellow professionals, to share knowledge, make great contacts and forge rewarding new relationships. Recent events have taken us to Wembley, Silverstone, Anfield and the British Motor Museum, and have offered opportunities to learn from inspirational leaders and speakers, such as Sir Clive Woodward, Major Tim Peake and RAF ace Tornado pilot Mandy Hickson. 

Building towards success

We also offer a range of geospatial resources packed with useful information, via a wealth of free-to-use materials. This includes everything from advice on marketing your business to financial tips. This all contributes to our aim, which is to help our members build and run successful businesses. We also offer free-to-attend technical and business seminars, and huge discounts on surveying courses at The Survey School. Another useful facet of membership are the recruitment opportunities. Whether you’re looking for a new apprentice or a seasoned professional, TSA’s jobs board and apprenticeship page are totally free for members to post recruitment opportunities. This provides geospatial surveyors with great openings to new career paths and chances to thrive in this rewarding, exciting profession.

Our dedicated emphasis on professional standards and continued improvement ensures TSA members always maintain the highest standards. If you’d like to find out more about becoming a member of The Survey Association, then visit https://www.tsa-uk.org.uk/membership/to find out more or click on our Join Us page.

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1. Geospatial surveying is the hidden foundation

Geospatial surveyors play a direct role in bringing construction projects to life and solving real-world problems. Surveying is not just about measuring land — it is about shaping the world we live in. Surveyors provide the data and insights that make sure everything, from houses and schools, to railways and roads, are built in the right place and to the right specifications.

2. A career with variety as no two days are the same

Every building project is unique — and that means no two days are the same for a surveyor. One day you could be flying drones over a wind farm, the next you might be scanning the interior of a historic building or mapping a new railway route. The work is exciting and very varied.

3. High-tech skills and tools

Surveyors use GPS, drones, 3D scanning, GIS software, laser scanners, and more. If you enjoy using the latest technology, data and innovation, surveying lets you stay at the cutting edge while developing skills that are in demand in many industries.

4. A range of routes into surveying

Whether you’re finishing GCSEs or A-levels, thinking about university, or interested in apprenticeships, geospatial surveying has a pathway for you. You can start with apprenticeships that let you earn while you learn, take industry-recognised diplomas, or go on to degrees and professional qualifications. Find out more about them here https://www.becomeasurveyor.com/a-career-in-surveying/

 5. Strong career prospects

Surveyors are in demand across the UK and beyond — with growth in construction, infrastructure, renewable energy and environmental projects. The Survey Association has a track record of promoting surveying for many decades to make sure young people know about the profession and supports training that helps meet a demand that will always be there.

6. Enjoy working outside as a surveyor

If you love being outdoors, enjoy solving puzzles, and want a career that involves both physical work and mental challenge, surveying could be ideal for you. From collecting and analysing complex data to working with a range of teams, you’ll build a wide range of skills.

Geospatial surveying is a rewarding and varied career that combines outdoor work, technology, and has real impact on the world. Find out more https://www.becomeasurveyor.com

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An important step towards addressing the skills gap in the region, the provision of this nationally recognised qualification means that employers in the North will be able to tap into high quality training from a renowned training provider for their employees.

The Survey Association is very pleased to welcome Zenith Training, which joins Riverside College in Widnes, Cheshire, Dudley College in the West Midlands and T3 Training at Mid-Kent College in offering this apprenticeship.

Geospatial apprenticeship for school leavers, surveyors and career-changers

The Level 3 Geospatial Survey Technician Apprenticeship is not only suitable for school leavers who are new to the survey profession, it is also excellent training for those with some survey experience or for career changers, looking for an accessible route into a geospatial role.

Apprenticeships provide a great way to develop staff, supported by substantial government funding. Survey companies can feel confident that geospatial apprenticeships are a cost-effective way to ensure their trainees gain the full range of knowledge, skills and behaviours required to become competent, knowledgeable surveyors.

Apprenticeships are evaluated through an End Point Assessment, which can comprise multiple-choice or written examinations, project reports, a portfolio of work, and a professional interview.

Recruiting a geospatial apprentice

If you want to register your interest in this Level 3 Apprenticeship with Zenith Training or discuss participation in it, please contact Zenith directly by emailing info@zenithtraining.org.uk or calling 0191 428 6555.

Remember that all survey companies can advertise apprenticeships free of charge on TSA’s website here. They can also advertise on the government’s own apprenticeship website here, as well as using their own website and social media for promotion.

To learn more about geospatial apprenticeships, please contact Katie Holt at katie@tsa-uk.org.uk.

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Stronger networks, stronger profession

The major events we create for our members continue to grow in scope and attract increasing numbers. This year’s AGM at Wembley saw nearly 60 survey businesses represented. As well as enjoying vibrant round table discussions on subjects close to our members’ hearts, including equipment theft, education and skills, fees and client education, the afternoon ‘Robot Wars’ session, along with the stadium tour added to the collaborative feel and opportunities to network.

Last month’s Conference and Awards Day was the best attended event in TSA’s history and we were delighted with the positive feedback from members, The Survey School delegates and the apprentices who attended. Mandy Hickson’s presentation was truly awe-inspiring, with fantastic insights into leadership,teamwork and members left armed with insights that directly improve their businesses. Plans are now well underway for our TSA AGM in March 2026 at Twickenham with the aim to continue to build community but also provide a place for members to contribute, inform and be informed.

In May next year we will also be returning to Utility Week Live. This will build on the progress we made in attending Europe’s only pan-utility exhibition this year to promote our PUMA scheme and talk to clients about the importance of best practice and raising standards when it comes to delivering surveys that comply with the PAS128 specification. TSA will also be offering more valuable CPD sessions to clients, working hard to raise standards and promote the vital importance of geospatial skill and expertise.

Tackling challenges head-on

2025 has also seen the establishment of our new partnership with NCATT (National Construction and Agriculture Theft Team), a dedicated unit within Northumbria Police, to address the continued threat of equipment theft, the consequences of which affects everyone involved in the geospatial profession. We have joined the Donor Group, which consists of the Construction Equipment Association, Construction Plant Association and Hire Association Europe, as well as insurers and suppliers. We are working closely with NCATT on this pressing concern for the good of all survey businesses and we look forward to sharing news of action being taken.

Relentlessly investing in the future

TSA funded the original project to create both Level 3 and Level 6 Trailblazer Apprenticeships for those wishing to train and gain a recognised qualification in surveying. We continue to be absolutely committed to supporting the roll out of Geospatial Apprenticeships across the country and it was fantastic having three apprentices attending last month’s Conference and Awards Day to receive the inaugural Best Apprentice awards. We are delighted that we now have T3 Training, along with Riverside and Dudley Colleges offering the Level 3 Geospatial Survey Technician Apprenticeship and we look forward to reporting further good news on this front in the weeks and months ahead.

Members of The Survey Association enjoy the benefits of recognition across the survey profession and stay up-to-date with the latest professional insights, guidance, and technologies.

To find out more about becoming a member, please go to https://www.tsa-uk.org.uk/membership/.

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