Getmapping and Astun Technology help LA.....

10 September 2007, 4:04pm

Getmapping and Astun Technology help local authorities strengthen on-line services to residents


To further enhance the services delivered through its interactive web portal, South Tyneside council has taken advantage of the ease with which aerial photography can be added to existing on-line mapping applications.

With high resolution imagery from Getmapping Plc combined with iShareMaps (a web mapping technology from Astun Technology), South Tyneside council now offers residents access to map-accurate aerial photography as well as conventional base mapping.

As aerial photography is more recognisable to residents, it provides a service that empowers the public with knowledge of their immediate environment. In addition, it offers an invaluable tool for those looking to move to the area.

Steve Borthwick, web content developer at South Tyneside council said: “The combination of services provided by Getmapping and Astun Technology are excellent. With some technologies you can wait a long time to display images but our information loads up fast and the photography is really clear.

“People have been very positive. They think My South Tyneside is an excellent service and have found it easy to use. All councils are trying to present information by location. We give members of the public complete access to useful information in their area; citizens get information about local schools, doctors, submitted planning permission and even up-to-the-minute road works. The aerial photography has improved the site further as it helps the public recognise landmarks and makes the whole experience more interesting.”

The introduction of high resolution aerial photography allows local authorities to offer compelling content, aid communication and drive traffic to their websites. The Getmapping and Astun Technology products can be effortlessly incorporated into existing services without plug-ins and information can be drawn from any data source.

The solution offered by Getmapping uses industry-standard protocols to deliver a seamless and map-accurate layer of geographic data from Getmapping’s servers, removing much of the effort of integration and computation experienced by local authorities.

Navigation of streets and roads is made possible through iShareMaps, an application which enables local authorities to introduce a mapping interface to their public website. Once set up it provides a host of facilities; these include the ability to zoom into maps, a sophisticated search function and a query tool, along with information on local services and location related public alerts. It also provides access to extensive planning details showing exactly where the application relates to and what the proposed changes are. The aerial photography complements the package by providing visual information on changes and the effect they will have on the environment.


For further information on how your council could implement the Getmapping iShareMaps technology contact Richard Spooner on 01252 849405 or email: richard.spooner@getmapping.com or Mike Saunt on 01372 440143 or email: mikesaunt@astuntechnology.com

GeoConnexion UK