news

Public transport stakeholders release joint statement on EU Urban Mobility Framework

Posted: 27 September 2021 | | No comments yet

A coalition of transport stakeholders have released a joint statement calling for public transport and active mobility to be placed at the heart of the future EU Urban Mobility Framework.

Transport stakeholders release EU Urban Mobility Framework statement

In a joint statement on the European Union’s (EU) Urban Mobility Framework, a broad coalition of transport stakeholders have stressed that public transport and active mobility must be the foundation on which to build the change that we need in our urban mobility systems.

Public transport and active mobility are the most sustainable, affordable, democratic, dependable and resilient transport modes, and should therefore be placed at the heart of the new EU Urban Mobility Framework, outlines the statement.

The statement points out the importance of accelerating the development of Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans, shaping appropriate funding opportunities and creating a good framework for public and private players to cooperate.

Key recommendations within the statement include:

  • Ensuring that Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans accelerate the uptake of sustainable and collective mobility
  • Support sustainable mobility with appropriate funding opportunities
  • Create multimodal mobility on the ground and by harnessing the benefits of data.

The coalition includes representatives of local and regional authorities, public transport operators, local and regional transport authorities, railway and infrastructure companies, the rail supply industry, passenger organisations and advocates for walking, cycling, disability rights and better health in Europe.

The scale and speed of the changes that we need requires a wide and concerted effort across all levels of government.

The European Commission (EC) must ensure that Member States fulfil their obligations and support their local authorities in delivering sustainable urban mobility.

“The message that we send to the European Commission today is clear: promoting public transport and active mobility is the only way to achieve EU climate targets and improve the quality of life in cities. While providing affordable and accessible mobility to all, these sustainable modes also help to tackle environmental challenges, boost the economy and improve EU citizens’ health and wellbeing. To encourage a much-needed modal shift, we call on the Commission to place public transport and active mobility at the heart of the future Urban Mobility Framework,” said Thomas Avanzata, Spokesperson of the European Union Committee.