Walkover survey
A walkover survey is a basic site survey which can form part of the early site investigation process at the beginning of a project. It involves walking over the site and the surrounding area and recording any observed information which may be relevant to the project. It may be part a wider desk-based study of the site.
A walkover survey should highlight any immediately apparent geological, ecological, topographical or other issues which may present constraints to the project, such as; the presence of protected species, contamination, site obstructions, access problems, water sources, trees, site boundaries and so on. It may incorporate additional information gathered from local authorities, local residents and people who work in the vicinity of the site. It should identify any areas where further and potentially more detailed surveys may be necessary.
Wherever possible, any information prepared or obtained should be in a format which can be readily shared and used, and should be stored and named in a way consistent with the long-term project and operational needs.
A walkover survey will generally be followed by more specific site surveys.
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