As detailed planning gets under wayfor Britain’s new high speed rail network HS2 Ltd turned to Blom to survey theUK’s largest ever infrastructure project.
With experience of working onprestigious projects, including the original Channel Tunnel Rail Link, Blomwasted no time in creating the mapping and visualisation tools HS2 consultantsrequired.
Utilising wide-format aerialcameras and LiDAR (laser scanners) Blom captured high resolution aerial imageryand laser data along the entire 225kms of the first phase of the proposed HS2route to provide a complete 3D overview. The high-resolution 4cm imagery isthen also used for subsequent 1:2500 topographic mapping and provides apermanent time-stamped photographic record along the route.
SimonKraeter, Commercial Director for Blom UK said “Our survey data is avaluable asset for route design and geotechnical assessment, helping HS2 Ltd todesign a better railway that minimises the impact along the route. The models can also be used to create sound propagationsimulations, making it possible to devise where sound reduction steps might benecessary.”
Many planning decisions requiremore than just a vertical view and accurate mapping to be able to put the sitein context with the surrounding area. Blom supports this need by capturingoblique aerial photography and video, giving a ‘bird’s eye’ perspective to anylocation on the route.
“Plansthat are sympathetic to the surrounding area are important to everyone but canonly be made if a contextual view of the area is available, which is what ouroblique imagery and aerial video provide. Hyperspectral imagery, used to showvegetation cover, is also provided, allowing planning decisions to be made withenvironmental aspects in mind”, added Simon.
Contact Information:
Blom ASA
http://www.blomasa.com/