Wasn't sure where to put this. I was out walking the dog today and noticed some surveyors in a farmer's field. Now I might be completely wrong but when they are using a theodolite is it usually for the purpose of planning some sort of structure eg a building or road, or can there be another purpose?
A theodolite simply measures angles. As such, it could be used (in conjunction with linear measurements) to accurately measure the area of a field, in order that it can be accurately described when selling it (or, for example, when claiming EU 'set aside' agricultural subsidies, etc).
Thanks for all the answers, I thought maybe it was something to do with drainage Buildersmate, don't know if its green belt or brown field Cassa, its not exactly countryside, just farmland between housing and a road then the hospital on the other side.