Barbican Estate, London
Project Overview
Mobile CAD were commissioned to perform a drone-based roof survey of a high-rise flat within London’s Barbican Estate. The aim was to capture point cloud and photometry data to support a complex window replacement programme in a sensitive and densely populated residential area.
Challenges Faced
At 125m, drone operations required specialist flight planning and high-performance equipment to operate safely and effectively.
The site is home to nesting peregrine falcons, necessitating environmental coordination and careful timing.
High footfall in the take-off area and a 14-day lead time for flight permissions made coordination essential.
The Outcome
Mobile CAD captured critical visual and spatial data in a single day using safe, high-altitude drone operations, mitigating ecological risk and public disruption. The outputs enabled the design team to assess window conditions without the need for scaffolding or intrusive methods.
Minimalised Disruption
Robust planning and co-ordination with local authorities ensured a seamless operation.
Safe Detail Capture
All survey information was captured with no disruption to the nesting wildlife or injury to residents.
Cost Effective
Avoided costly scaffolding by enabling remote inspections using photogrammetry.
