Capita Design are the market leader in strategic partnering with UK local authorities, providing a wide range of managed services including property and highways control. Capita required an accurate ‘as-built’ computer model as part of a proposal for Scarborough Borough Council to undertake a £2.5 million refurbishment of Scarborough Market Hall. This as-built model was to comply with RIBA Stages 2 and 3.

A 3D Laser Scanning survey was completed of the entire structure alongside a photographic scan. The resulting ‘point cloud’ data enabled the production of an as-built model of the existing building. The photographs taken at the same time were combined with the data to create photo metric images. These allow a detailed internal study of the space for heritage purposes and a greater understanding for both client and officers of the level of degradation in the original interiors. This reduced risks for both the client and Capita.

Laser scanning enabled a programme saving of two weeks in pre-planning and the detail design was risk free due to the level of data gained at this initial stage. English Heritage were able to fully see the building in its context and fully understand the existing condition. The Laser scanning also recorded the existing internal layout, alterations and existing damage to the building. The resulting as-built model was then used into RIBA Stage 4 as the project progressed.

Chris Boyce, Capita, Design Director, said " Whilst levels and risk would have been mitigated, we would have spent around 100 man hours on a traditional survey and the outcome would have been a lesser quality representation of the existing structure with more margin for error. The design team would also have spent much longer integrating our Revit model into the existing building. “We chose Hobs Studio for their speed, efficiency and value. The experience was excellent and the team were flexible and intelligent in the work. Going forward all of our key projects that involve existing buildings will use this service.”