Thurrock Council deploys drones for highway inspections

Thurrock Council has begun deploying drones to inspect highway structures across the borough. The technology, trialled on culverts at Dunstable Road and St Margarets Road, allows engineers to identify defects in hazardous or hard-to-reach locations, such as steep embankments and confined spaces, without risking staff safety.

Specialist contractor ProDroneWorx conducted the surveys using drones equipped with high-resolution cameras and GPS technology. The resulting digital records and condition data will enable the council to prioritize maintenance, target specific repairs, and inform future investment in the highway network.