‘Information communication’ is one of the major contributors to keep travellers moving in the right direction on British transport systems. With a united Europe becoming more realistic, and the borders now gradually being lowered information design will therefore become increasingly important in crossing language, cultural barriers and difficulties related to disability than ever before.

With a predicted 43.9 million passengers passing through the tunnel by 2003 the unhindered flow of passengers and freight is therefore vital throughout the networks surrounding and using the tunnel. The inauguration of the Channel Tunnel has promoted a predictable new era of transport which follows 200 years of multiple plans and failures. Its establishment is now a matter of record.

It appears that with most new, and improving transport networks the degree of provision and use of information to reduce anxiety is an ‘unknown quantity’. Certain aspects of information may be required to alleviate this anxiety, and more importantly make people understand and react to decision making situations easier.

The main objectives of this study have been to research into the possibilities for an ‘interactive information system’ for the Channel Tunnel and to find out if there would be an opportunity through a client, interested party or financier to aid this study and help implement such a facility.

By canvassing the opinion of a cross section of the public, limited by the time and availability of resources necessary to pursue comprehensive and extensive in depth appraisal, the designs produced, to date, have received a positive response. The problem areas revealed are fairly consistent as indicated by the people who have viewed the designs so far.

The proposed information areas to generate a more detailed screen design are in the study. Further convincing is required however, through a full working prototype with sound, speech and video footage. Therefore the aim ‘To convey information that cannot be achieved by printed media alone’ is not to be wholly substantiated at present. With the data provided and potential information in the study to be injected there may indeed be too much for printed media to give a clear and unconfused message. More investigation into how people read and perceive graphic material is required for further development.