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Precision Surveys for One of Britain’s Oldest Walled Cities

Heritage Technology for Chester’s Living History

Chester’s rich architectural heritage spans over two millennia, from the enduring Roman city walls and medieval crypts to black-and-white revival buildings and historic churches that line its streets. In a city where nearly every corner tells a story, maintaining the built environment requires exceptional care. Traditional access methods can be intrusive, expensive, and often impractical in such a densely packed and sensitive urban core.

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At Cr8ive Media UK, we provide drone photogrammetry surveys that give conservation teams, planners, and property owners an accurate and non-invasive way to document and assess historic structures. Our 3D models capture surface conditions and structural detail without disturbing public areas or fragile historic materials. This allows critical work to progress without scaffolding or disruption, preserving both the fabric and function of the city.

An image of the main clock in Chester

Tailored for Complex Urban Heritage

Chester presents a unique challenge for building surveys. Rooflines intersect with footpaths, historic precincts are tightly enclosed, and many heritage features are tucked above busy shopping streets or within protected monuments. Our drone surveys are specifically adapted to work in these complex environments.

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Using lightweight UAVs and pre-approved flight plans, we carry out surveys with minimal disruption to local activity. This means no need to close roads or restrict public access, making our method ideally suited to active city centres like Chester. Our operations comply fully with heritage protections, including scheduled monument and conservation area conditions. The data we produce, including 3D models, orthophotos, and meshes, can be exported for use in CAD platforms, digital archives, and funding or planning documentation.

A section of wall in Chester showing structural movement and weakening

Use Case: City Wall Inspection

We recently scanned a section of Chester’s Roman wall located next to an active construction site. Using drone photogrammetry, we created a highly detailed mesh model that revealed subtle structural movement compared to data from the previous year.

 

This evidence supported the developer's decision to implement protective measures, helping prevent further risk to the historic structure. At a cost of £400, the drone survey eliminated the need for costly scaffolding and allowed the external engineers to review the findings remotely, supporting their impact assessments with accurate, visual proof.

Start Your Digital Archive Today

Whether you're planning a restoration, seeking a funding round, or simply need a clear record of current condition, Cr8ive Media UK can help. Our work in Chester is rooted in respect for the past, powered by the tools of tomorrow.

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Based in Liverpool - serving the whole of the UK

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We are trusted by councils surveyors and developers across the North West of England and North Wales
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