Google’s Map Maker service can now be used to improve mapping of the UK. The browser based map amendment system allows users to suggest changes to Google’s maps to make them more pertinent and accurate. Additions that can be made include places, transport facilities, building outlines and natural features/boundaries. A lot of features that Google’s mapping car may not be able to drive around.
The online Google Map Maker tool was introduced in 2008 to improve mapping in countries including Pakistan and Vietnam and “just over a dozen other countries” says the BBC. Since then the service has expanded to include countries where the Google mapping cars do actually travel around, to enhance the usefulness of maps for fellow Googlers. The US, France and Australia all already have the ability to edit Google Maps online. However the tools were slow to come to the UK because of various “technical obstacles to overcome”, according to a statement by Google made to the BBC.
In a post on the Google Maps Blog, Satish Mavuri, Program Manager, wrote “whether marking the trails through Brecon Beacons National Park in Wales, adding all your favourite shops in London’s Soho Square, or improving driving directions to St Ives in Cornwall. Drawing from your knowledge about world famous tourist destinations or the streets of your hometown, you can now use Google Map Maker to make the map of the United Kingdom (along with Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey) more comprehensive and accurate than ever before.”
The Google Map Maker service uses an approval system to prevent abuse and mischief. Suggested amendments are reviewed by both fellow users and Google employees before going live on Google Maps, Google Earth or Google Maps for Mobile.
A particularly useful application of the service was mentioned in the Google Maps Blog, where a Gloucester resident has improved the maps for local cyclists and pedestrians. Also the UK launch event shows a good example of the Map Maker utility; users have made a much better detailed and accurate map of Bletchley Park. There is a before and after screenshot comparison below.
Bletchley Park edits, click to enlarge
