Intermodal terminals in the BSR at the centre of attention
Published: 2012-05-02 09:38
Following investigation on intermodal terminal development as a part of the analysis of transport flows and scenarios till2030 , TransBaltic arranged a thematic debate dedicated to the future of intermodal terminals in the Baltic Sea Region. Regional authorities, ports and terminals around the Baltic Sea were invited to meet on March, 29 in Copenhagen to discuss trends, development drivers and policy responses.
The issue is in the policy limelight, addressed in the TEN-T proposal, and of high relevance from the Danish perspective on account of fierce competition two ‘green’ modes of transport – maritime (feeder ships) entered in this country to get hold of the freight commodities. The current status of development differs, however, between the Baltic Sea countries depending on ownership patterns and prioritisation of investments in rail infrastructure. But how would we like to see the development and who should have responsibilities in establishing, organising and operating an intermodal terminal? The seminar discussions concluded that all levels have a role to play. Public investments are needed to develop the basic infrastructure and the responsibility for strategic planning according to the country’s interests falls upon the national governments. However, since the private sector pays the actual construction and operational cost of the terminal, the decision on location is up to the market. A dialogue between public and private sector already from the start is therefore essential.
The fact that terminal investments are made by private sector awoke another question among the stakeholders, whether the unrestricted access conditions required by the European Commission for including the intermodal terminals in the TEN-T network are really feasible? It was suggested that a solution could be to differentiate between the mature terminals and the start-ups, with the latter allowed running own (restricted access) service until certain volumes are reached.
In the context of the TEN-T policy on intermodal terminals it was also suggested that the BSR should be paid special attention compared to other macroregions due to specific geographical characteristics of the area, which requires much ro-ro traffic. The macroregion’s sparsely populated areas with dispersed production also call for another approach in transport facilitating policies.