Developing an Interactive GIS Application for Identifying Suitable Earthquake Monitoring Sites in the UK

Abstract

The British Geological Survey (BGS) monitors seismic activity across the UK. In collaboration with BGS, a web-based application was developed to improve current methods for selecting suitable locations for new earthquake monitoring stations. An ArcGIS Dashboard was built to provide a more efficient, dynamic and repeatable approach to site selection. It enables users to filter buffer layers of anthropogenic and environmental seismic noise sources to identify suitable locations for monitoring stations.

The dashboard was refined through testing and user feedback, with performance optimisation techniques improving both speed and usability. While the primary focus was a desktop version, a conceptual mobile version was also developed, highlighting potential for future field-based deployment. The final product functions effectively as a decision support tool, offering BGS a more robust method for evaluating site suitability.

Overall, this work demonstrates the value of combining spatial analysis with user-centred design to support infrastructure planning and drive innovation in seismic monitoring.