Share Orkney town centre to be seen under new light with 3D scanning

Friday 28 September 2018

Share Orkney town centre to be seen under new light with 3D scanning
Researchers from Robert Gordon University (RGU) are embarking on a project to 3D scan the main street in Stromness, with the highly visual digital images going on public display.

The scanning of one of the most historic streets in Orkney will offer the opportunity for RGU to collect data which can be used to inform research activity directly related to the ambition of Orkney’s Local Development Plan.

This pilot project will provide the research team with links to local stakeholder groups essential to the development of collaborative research projects, and will allow, through a series of public engagement events, the opportunity to determine areas of interest and challenges most relevant to the Orkney community.

Project lead, Professor Richard Laing from RGU’s Scott Sutherland School of Architecture and Built Environment, commented: “This purpose of this project is to provide pilot urban environment 3D scanned data, and will allow the team to present a highly visual model of the town to the local community.

“The project will involve active community engagement through public outreach work with an exhibition and presentation to schools, colleges, and community heritage groups to achieve enhanced impact.

“The 3D scanning project will also have direct links to the Stromness Research and Innovation Campus development work while data collected during the course of this visit would be used in several planned research project applications relating to the Stromness area.

“The work will be undertaken in collaboration with UHI Archaeology Institute, who have a very strong track record and reputation with regards to analysis and understanding of the Orcadian built and natural landscapes, and the team hopes this will lead to many more exciting projects and activities in the future.”

Laser scanning will be undertaken along the historic and architecturally unique Victoria Street, capturing key points such as well-known building facades and the topography and layout.

Once the scanning is complete and all the data compiled, a public exhibition of the images will be set up in a central location in Stromness to encourage discussion and engagement with the local community. The team also aims to hold public outreach sessions with local primary school children and local heritage groups.

Cookie Consent