Local News

ECC to fund KGB mapping

Exeter City Council will be funding a new mapping operation to promote local tourism after Russian military maps from the 1950 to the 1990s proved more accurate than current guides.

The Russians measured the width of Sidwell Street, the height of Exe Bridges, the depth of the Exe at the Quay and all the street names.

Experts believe the maps were created from aerial photos, early satellite images, local knowledge and even spies on the ground.

Accountants say that by using the Russian military maps the council can save on the fees usually associated with producing a map that would normally be payable to the Ordinance Survey.

A specialist Russian cartography unit is being set up to update the maps in line with the new Princesshay development and the new maps will be available from the Civic centre in early March.

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