Landmark and passenger experience study

Project: Provision of a series of customer focused Virtual Reality Simulation sessions for the Phase One and 2a hybrid Bill Design, commissioned as part of two Passenger Experience and Landmark Studies carried out by Arup for HS2. These simulations are supported by the project sponsor and the HS2 Independent Design Panel. This work is central to the core tenets of the HS2 Design Vision - People, Place, Time.

Background: In 2016, HS2’s Design Team commissioned a landmark study to test the Phase One hybrid Bill design from the passenger’s perspective. This was then developed into a virtually simulated experience along a 10km section of the route using a methodology that accurately simulates a passenger’s journey on HS2. It was shared extensively across HS2 Ltd and supply chain during summer 2018. A second study and virtual reality simulation was commissioned in 2018 for a 30km stretch of the Phase 2a hybrid Bill design. The technology available progressed since the Phase One study and new interventions were simulated. HS2 Design team commissioned the presentation of an extensive series of sessions demonstrating the Phase One and Phase 2a VR simulation to key groups working on the respective route sections.

Objective: Whilst it is essential to mitigate effects identified in the Environmental Statement, we have a duty to the sponsor and our customers to create a memorable and enjoyable passenger experience. This includes considering the potential for views of landmarks and landscapes, the impacts of design decisions made and importantly the timing of those decisions.