Files to use: DXF. Written for: Vectorworks 2025 help (Architect, Landmark or Design Suite for site models).
Steps
- In a new file, set the georeferencing (File › Document Settings › Georeferencing) to EPSG:27700, British National Grid.
- File › Import › Import Single DXF/DWG. Check the detected units are metres, and tick This file contains georeferenced geometry.
- If the contours come in as flat polygons, select them and use Modify › Convert › Convert to 3D Polys. Then run Validate 3D Data.
- With the 3D contours selected, use Site Model from Source Data.
Good to know
- Only use the contour layers as source data. Leave out the labels and the notes.
Coordinates, units and heights
- Units are metres. Plan positions are real Ordnance Survey British National Grid coordinates (EPSG:27700), so a point at easting 324630, northing 639730 sits at exactly those coordinates in your drawing.
- Heights are metres above Ordnance Datum Newlyn, as in the LiDAR. Each contour line is drawn at its own height, and each spot level is a 3D point with a text label beside it.
- The layers are listed in SOURCE_AND_ACCURACY.txt, along with the survey date and the accuracy note. Keep it with the drawing.
Vendor help: Vectorworks 2025 help: Importing georeferenced site files. If your version's menus differ, follow the vendor's page.
Try it with a real sample first
Real public LiDAR for a small patch of ground at the edge of Peebles (Scottish Public Sector LiDAR Phase 3, 0.5 m). It's a sample area, not a real plot for sale. Free to download, no account needed.
Scottish Government LiDAR, tested to ±0.14 m typical on open ground (95% within ±0.28 m), shown with the date the survey was flown. Good for feasibility and early design; for setting out and detailed design, commission a measured survey. When you need a surveyor.
Other guides: AutoCAD · Revit · SketchUp · QGIS · Civil 3D
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