A layer is a data layer added to a map. Layers are the building blocks of every map you create in Cadence.
Cadence has hundreds of built-in layers covering transport, demographics, land use, planning data, and more. You can also create layers from your own data by uploading a GeoJSON or CSV file.
Layer types
Joinable data
A dataset joined to a geographic boundary — such as census output areas, LSOAs, or local authority districts. Use these to show statistics (for example, population density or car ownership levels) mapped across an area.
Map layer
A standalone geographic dataset displayed as points, lines, or polygons. This includes built-in datasets as well as data you upload yourself.
Screen annotation
Drawn directly onto the map canvas using the annotation tools. Use annotations to add pins, shapes, lines, and text without needing an external dataset.
What you can do with layers
- Change the colour, opacity, and line weight of a layer.
- Apply filters to show only the features that matter.
- Add tooltips so users can click on features to see data values.
- Hide layers from the Viewer without deleting them.
- Clone layers to create variations quickly.