When the Fehmarn connection opens in 2029, it will provide rail tracks for trains running between Copenhagen and Hamburg. But where should these trains stop along the way? Nykøbing? Vordingborg? Næstved? Ringsted?
The local municipalities remain deeply divided on the matter. However, past experience shows that it’s easier to convince transport policymakers at Christiansborg if there’s a united recommendation. To that end, Region Zealand and its 17 municipalities aim to find common ground.
To achieve this, an analysis will be conducted. The municipal directors of the 17 municipalities have agreed on this, and the plan is set for discussion on Tuesday at the KKR Zealand meeting. The KKR (Municipal Contact Council) is where the region’s 17 mayors discuss issues of mutual interest.
At the meeting, the mayors will discuss the criteria for the analysis, which is expected to be prepared by external consultants.
Four stations in play
The analysis will fundamentally be based on the premise laid out in *Sjælland Baner Vejen Frem* (Zealand Paves the Way). This traffic proposal prioritizes various infrastructure projects in Region Zealand and represents a consensus among all the municipalities and the region.
The latest version of this proposal, revised in January, states the following about the German trains:
“The ambition is that long-distance train services should have at least two stops in Region Zealand. There should be stops in Næstved, Vordingborg and/or Nykøbing Falster, and a stop in Ringsted may also be relevant.”
The goal of the analysis, as outlined in the agenda for Tuesday’s meeting, is to “highlight the added value of having at least two stops in Zealand.” It will assess the potential stops in Nykøbing, Vordingborg, Næstved, and Ringsted.
The analysis is expected to outline three to four different scenarios for how the train stops can be optimally placed within the region’s geography.
“This means, for example, that each scenario must examine the impact on the specific stations receiving long-distance stops and the travel opportunities it creates for other towns, the surrounding areas, and Schleswig-Holstein,” the agenda states.
Five key criteria
The analysis will address five criteria:
1. Growth and Development: The scenarios must evaluate workforce potential and opportunities for residential growth, tourism, educational institutions, and businesses.
2. Commuting and Accessibility: Scenarios will weigh expected passenger numbers and traffic demand for the possible stops. This includes changes in travel and commuting patterns to and from the capital, as well as the surrounding area’s commuting potential, with estimated travel times. Interplay with other regional traffic will also be mapped, supplemented by case studies on commuting effects and travel time.
3. Socioeconomic Impact: Each scenario will evaluate the societal benefits, such as travel time savings and improved commuting options.
4. Environment and Green Transition: The potential for shifting passengers from cars to trains will be assessed, including possible emission reductions.
5. Project Readiness: Scenarios will be weighed by station and track capacity, potential construction investments, and facilities like access and parking. Future plans and projects impacting travel patterns and surrounding areas will also be considered, with a focus on the maturity and feasibility of these projects.
Analysis ready by summer
After the KKR meeting on Tuesday, the plan will be forwarded to Region Zealand’s politicians, specifically the Committee for Regional Development, Education, Public Transport, and International Cooperation, which is scheduled to review it on December 10.
The goal is to complete the analysis within six months, enabling the politicians to meet in June to agree on a unified stance regarding the train stops.
Facts: The proposed plan (not yet finalized) outlines the following criteria for the analysis:
1. Growth and development: Impact on workforce, residential potential, tourism, education, and business.
2. Commuting and accessibility: Passenger numbers, travel patterns, and connections to other traffic systems.
3. Socioeconomic impact: Time savings and commuter improvements.
4. Environment and green transition: Potential for reducing car travel and emissions.
5. Project Readiness: Station capacity, required investments, and project feasibility.
