HS2 “A new transport system” says McNaughton (part 1)

Part one – Passengers first

HS2 “Not a traditional railway”, Chief Engineer Andrew McNaughton prefers to think of it as as “a new transport system that happens to be steel on wheel” McNaughton’s description was contained with a feature published by RAIL within it’s July 25th issue.

Within the feature McNaughton explained to readers about the challenges and opportunities that can arise from designing a new high capacity network fit or the 21^st century. He also makes the point that passenger requirements are at the forefront of the design process.

Loading and unloading 1,100 passengers at stations does provide designers with somewhat of a challenge, however designing a new system from the outset provides opportunities to design in systems that are able to deal with large volumes of passengers. McNaughton’s description of how HS2 stations will work makes them seem much more like modern efficient airport terminals rather than traditional railway platforms.

Rather than passengers waiting on expansive platforms for a train to arrive and then boarding at any old door, McNaughton envisages a system whereby passengers are directed to specific gates where they can wait for the individual carriages ready to board. Passengers will be whisked briskly to and from carriages by airline style travelators taking the strain out of boarding trains that will be up to 400m long.

From the outset passengers’ requirements will be top priority, from how passengers buy tickets, which could be traditional printed or barcode apps stored on smart phones, to how passengers are co-located and are able to find their seat.

Although designing a high capacity system that could see trains departing platforms at Euston within up to 20 minutes of arrival,will be challenging, it will not however be impossible and the subsequent system designed will be much more efficient than any station system designed previously. HS2 stations will be vibrant places in which passengers no matter how mobile are able to move efficiently and easily from entrance to seat and vice-versa . McNaughton describes a station that can be intuitively navigated by young and old alike, and one that provides access for those who are less mobile.

HS2 trains and stations will be designed to provide unparalleled levels of comfort and access for passengers, who will enjoy the benefits of a new system that has been designed from the ground up with their needs put first.

Artist’s impression of a new lighter and more passenger friendly concourse at Euston

With thanks to Rail magazine for reference permission.

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