Anglian Water has enlisted drone technology for its large sewers in Ipswich to monitor the conditions of its sewerage network.

The drone is operated by Draincare, and features laser, sonar and high definition CCTV to scan the pipes, recording silt build up and the condition of the pipes.

The data will be gathered to produce a 3D model of the sewer system, and allows Anglian Water to monitor the condition without needing to close roads or set up temporary traffic lights.

Sarah Dobson, Anglian Water spokeswoman said: “We’ll be surveying the larger sewers in the town using this new technology.

“Getting into sewers is a dangerous job and the apparatus needed above ground can require roads and footpaths to be closed.

“This new technology means we can get the job done more safely and with less disruption for local residents.”

The drones were trialled in Cambridge before being rolled out across Ipswich.