Digital data capture on Lower Thames Crossing

At 13 miles in length, including a 2-mile twin-bored tunnel under the Thames Estuary, the Lower Thames Crossing will create a new 70mph link route between the A2 in Kent and the M25 in Essex. It is expected to carry 4.5 million heavy goods vehicles in its first year and was identified as the best solution for reducing traffic and congestion at the Dartford Crossing, as well as boosting the economy by improving links to London and the Channel ports.

This scale of the project and the vast amount of data that needs to be generated, managed, analyzed and used to drive the design process poses a significant challenge. In the case of collecting and analyzing environmental survey data-sets in a meaningful way, Arcadis’s work in digitizing data collection for field surveys has made a significant difference in driving project efficiency and collaborative multi-disciplinary design. 

Digital Data Collection

To meet the challenge of generating meaningful information for large infrastructure projects like the Lower Thames Crossing, all survey data is collected on tablets, which makes it accessible to any member of the team - including those in the office.  This data can also be shared quickly with relevant stakeholders and the wider project team. 

This approach is particularly beneficial because it reduces data handling time, due to the fact that data does not need re-processing from paper maps. This has the added bonus of reducing errors in data management, as well as reducing costs and time.  

Having all maps and survey forms on the tablets allows teams to be dynamic and work across the whole scheme, as well on different surveys types where appropriate.

The use of tablets also drives a positive and effective health and safety culture.  Every surveyor is able to record hazards onto the tablet documenting its significance, whether it is permanent or temporary and take a photo if needed. This hazard information then instantly informs anyone working on the project of the hazards present on site.