September 2008 - Aberdeenshire Council is using the latest satellite and laser technology to monitor developments.  Using a handheld satellite positioning system specifically designed for field mapping applications, a laser distance measurement device and GGP Systems advanced geographical information system (GIS) staff at the Council are accurately mapping development projects, land fill sites and quarries. This field-captured information is then used to ensure that development projects and activities are progressing in accordance with planning permissions, development policy and operating licences.

"The integrated mobile mapping system brings the real world to the desktop," commented Joanne Davidson, GIS Technician within the Planning and Environmental Services division of Aberdeenshire Council. "In virtual real time I can update our existing mapping with information captured in the field. This can then be used to compare with original plans or granted permissions for Planning Development issues, as proof of unauthorised activities for litigation purposes or to assist with the design of new development projects."

The system supplied by Aberdeen based Positioning Resources comprises of a Magellan MobileMapper system that uses GPS technology to achieve sub-metre accurate calculations of position. The MobileMapper also offers Bluetooth wireless connectivity for ease of data transfer, a touch screen and phone like keypad for convenient data entry and is rugged, waterproof and lightweight with a working day battery life. Aberdeenshire also use TruPulse 200 Laser Rangefinders that can be linked to the MobileMapper via Bluetooth and are used for measuring distance, height or offset from the handheld devices.

"The ease with GGP integrates with third party devices and software has been critical to roll out of mobile mapping in Aberdeenshire," continued Davidson. "Data produced and held within the GIS can be downloaded onto the handheld devices for use on the field and vice versa data collected on the field is uploaded for wider use."

Aberdeenshire Council is a long-term user of GGP's GIS with the system providing benefit across the organisation and more than 500 geographically referenced datasets in regular use. The newly acquired MobileMapper will further enable data captured in the field to be used to update back office records ensuring currency, consistency and compliance.

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