EU research needs to take role in addressing urban transport problems - seminar
All regions and cities need to look into their own individual features to help them solve their urban transport problems, but European Union research could assist in providing solutions. This was one of the conclusions of a transport forum held in Stockholm, Sweden from 25 to 28 April. Attended by representatives of the European Commission, European Parliament and Committee of the regions (CoR), the event provided a platform for innovative discussions on the best methods to tackle urban transport problems. CoR member James Walsh from the UK pointed out that 'each region and city needs to decide its own solutions, but the EU can help by using its research funding to investigate future approaches to transport. It can also help local and regional authorities to make links and exchange ideas.' This was followed by a note of warning from a Commission representative that the problem does not just revolve around pollution. Introducing clean technologies could mean that in 'ten years' time we will be facing clean congestion,' said Kevin Leydon, head of the urban unit at the Commission's DG Transport and energy. The host of the meeting CoR member and vice mayor of Solna, Sweden, Anders Gustav, said that transport policies needed to be in line with city planning policies in future, as congestion in some cities is 'reaching a point where it is a threat to freedom of movement and to economic growth.' European Commission proposals for a common transport policy are expected by the end of May and a Communication on urban transport will be drawn up before the end of the year.