Blackpool Pleasure Beach has been mapped in 3D by Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) in a project backed by Ordnance Survey (OS) and the Lancashire Resilience Forum (LRF) to help emergency planners support any possible incidents at the attraction.

The 3D model is for emergency planning purposes, bringing realism and a shared operating picture that a 2D map simply cannot.

Kevin Topping, Chair of the LRF Lancashire Emergency Response Plan Sub Group, said: “Although we have always utilised Geographic Information System (GIS) data to produce static maps, the use of newer technology and applications opened up the possibility of assessing how drones could bring a new sense of realism to planning, response and recovery. This initial example, supported by Ordnance Survey, has enabled us to build on our experience and widen the scope to more sites now and in the future, both in peacetime and during a response.”

Tim Murrell, Drone Manager at LFRS, and the Drone & Robotics Lead at the National Fire Chiefs Council, said: “Whilst we have been operating drones for ten years, the complexity of the site allowed us to develop our techniques in a more challenging environment.

"The expertise in UAS mapping operations provided by Ordnance Survey was pivotal in allowing us to safely and effectively map the site. The drone flights and subsequent 3D mesh generation has allowed us to better support our LRF colleagues with highly detailed mapping of a complex site. We are better prepared for potential incidents and scenario training, and can provide a highly visual platform for shared situational awareness.”

OS 3D mapping has been used by in real incidents. Devon and Cornwall Police was assisted by OS geospatial staff for a major evacuation in Plymouth; and the Isle of Wight Council was supported after a landslip.

A YouTube video shows OS 3D Mesh and Lancashire Fire and Rescue mesh combined – https://youtu.be/9QogxkfN10s.