How to Apply for Heritage Funding for Drone Documentation

28 May

Drone technology is transforming how we document, protect, and restore historic sites. From capturing detailed aerial imagery to generating interactive 3D models, drones offer heritage organisations a cost-effective way to assess conditions, record structures, and support conservation bids. But how can small charities, trusts, or local councils fund this kind of work?

In this guide, we’ll show you how to apply for heritage funding that can help pay for drone surveys, thermal inspections, and photogrammetry documentation.

Why Use Drones for Heritage Work?

Drones can:

Capture hard-to-reach areas like roofs, towers, and spires
Identify structural issues such as cracks, damp, or heat loss
Produce high-resolution orthophotos and 3D models for records or restoration
Reduce the need for scaffolding, keeping costs and disruption low.

When presented alongside a funding application, drone outputs offer clear evidence, visual storytelling, and planning material that strengthen your case.

Funding Options in the UK

Several heritage and conservation bodies offer grants that can cover drone documentation costs as part of broader conservation work.

1. National Lottery Heritage Fund

Website →
Funds projects from £3,000 up to millions
Drones can be included under “project development,” “repair and conservation,” or “recording and interpretation”
Tip: Show how drone surveys support long-term sustainability or community engagement

2. Historic England Grants

Website →
Eligible works include condition surveys, architectural recording, and digital documentation
Discuss drone use under “enhancing understanding” or “risk assessment for urgent repairs”

3. Regional & Local Heritage Trusts

Examples: SPAB, CCT, local preservation societies
Many offer micro-grants or funding for listed buildings at risk
Pair drone work with traditional reports for stronger applications

Tips for Applying Successfully

Be specific: Outline how drone surveys will help document or protect the site.
Include deliverables: Mention outputs like aerial photos, orthomosaics, thermal scans, or 3D models.
Link to goals: Show how drone work aligns with conservation, access, education, or repair priorities.
Use a qualified operator: Mention that CAV Aerial is fully CAA-certified (GVC) and insured.

Case Study: Thermal Drone Survey Saves Historic Church Thousands

In a compelling real-world example, a historic church in Cambridge commissioned a drone thermal survey to assess heat loss from its roof. The results revealed substantial inefficiencies that would have gone unnoticed without aerial thermal imaging. Based on the findings, the church made targeted insulation improvements — avoiding the need for costly scaffolding or full structural surveys.

This proactive approach helped the community save thousands of pounds in potential repair costs and guided them toward more sustainable energy management.

Read the full case study on Cambridge Network