Feature: How one of our drones helped uncover a Roman Road
Can cutting edge technology help us connect with the past?
That question was answered when AWE’s drone team recently helped Tadley Town Council locate the remains of Portway, an ancient Roman road that once linked Silchester (Calleva Atrebatum) to Old Sarum in Salisbury.
Why was it important to find the road?
Tadley Town Council purchased land to extend the local cemetery, ensuring it remains a peaceful resting place for the community.
Before planning new burial and ashes plots, they needed to confirm the exact route of Portway as preserving this historic feature is essential.
This is where we stepped in.
This project wasn’t just about archaeology. We want to ensure AWE supports local communities through our research and capabilities.
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Councillor Avril Burdett
What our Drone Team did
Led by drone operator Richard, the team used the Skydio X10 drone to carry out a thermographic survey and capture high resolution aerial imagery.
• Thermal imaging detects temperature differences underground
• High quality photography and video for detailed mapping
• Thermal video to visualize subsurface anomalies
The survey provided a clearer picture of where the Roman road lies beneath the surface. You can watch the full story in our video recap:
Kit Malthouse MP, North West Hampshire summed it up perfectly:
“This is a fantastic example of how cutting-edge technology can serve our communities and connect us with our past. “
“AWE’s collaboration with Tadley Town Council not only supports the practical needs of a growing town but also helps uncover and preserve our local history.”
Kit Malthouse MP, North West Hampshire
“It is a reminder that innovation and heritage can go hand in hand and that strong partnerships like this one can deliver real and lasting value for local residents.”
AWE helped Tadley Town Council reduce costs and supported in the preservation of a piece of local heritage.
AWE is a hub of innovation. From pioneering nuclear science and advanced engineering to exploring robotics, AI and drone technology, our brilliant people are constantly pushing boundaries to keep the UK safe and future ready.
Our investment in world-class facilities and partnerships with universities and industry leaders ensures we remain at the forefront of science and technology, as we have for 75 years.
