Commission presents Green Paper on "Citizens' network" of interlinked public transport systems
On 23 January 1996, the European Commission presented a Green Paper on the development of interlinked transport services aimed at increasing the safety, flexibility and accessibility of public transport systems across the Union. The consultative Green Paper, entitled "The Citizens' Network" (COM(95) 601 final), aims to open a public debate about how better to fulfil the potential of public passenger transport in Europe. In the last two decades, there has been an explosion in the demand for transport, which has mostly been met by greater use of the private car. The aim of European transport policy is to foster a network that makes the best possible use of all available modes of transport. Over-dependence on the use of the car has resulted in increased congestion, pollution and accidents. At present the costs of congestion in the European Union are four times greater than investment in public passenger transport. This is the first time the European Commission has issued a policy document on public transport. Many Community policies - both in terms of funding and legislation - have an impact on public transport. By starting this debate, the Commission wishes to ensure that Community action in these areas takes full account of the need to promote public transport. The Green Paper suggests a number of areas for possible improvement, including: - Better access to public transport systems through: . Improvements in the design of rolling stock and intermodal stations where passengers can move quickly and easily from one form of transport to another; . Improving links between residential areas and common destinations (eg. workplaces, shopping streets, leisure centres) and links between the urban centres and suburban and rural areas; . Improving access for people with restricted mobility (eg. the elderly, the physically handicapped, adults with small children and pushchairs etc.); . Improving safety with better lighting, staffing levels and design; increasing convenience through greater reliability of service and integrated ticketing; raising quality with greater frequency, cleanliness and with well-motivated staff; - Better integration of different forms of transport, through better coordination of bus, tram, metro and rail; - Better integration of transport policy with other policy areas. The Commission recognises that the development of strategies in these areas is primarily a task for national, local and regional authorities. There are, however, areas in which action at a Community level may be useful. Four specific areas for Community action are identified: - Promotion of information sharing and best practice; - Research and development; - Funding mechanisms; - Legislation.