CLOSER - Connecting LOng and Short-distance networks for Efficient tRansport
Overview
Background & policy context:
The European Transport Policy, see COM(2006)314final, proposes the concept of co-modality as an essential instrument to achieve a high level of mobility and environmental protection. Co-modality is defined as the efficient use of different transport modes on their own as well as their combination.
The existing transport system still remains far away from that concept. The interface between long and short-distance transport in a door-to-door trip is frequently the weak link in the transport chain for both passenger and freight transport. The current situation favours the choice of uni-modal solutions by users, and handicaps the development of more competitive and more sustainable transport chains. In addition, this situation reduces the number of alternatives available to users, such as innovative services and intermodal transport. The users have to cope with complex, expensive and inefficient operations in these interfaces.
Objectives:
Based on existing research and practice the CLOSER project developed innovative tools for the analysis of interfaces and checked these tools in a number of case studies. As a result specific recommendations to stakeholders were provided in order to obtain:
- a more systematic approach to the whole project cycle of interfaces from planning to design and operation;
- specific guidelines for decision makers in order to cope with the challenges of a particular project, and to get the most out of the opportunities that each project offers in the areas of transport, spatial, and economic development;
- a friendlier regulatory environment; fostering cooperation and supporting better integrated interfaces;
- improved mechanisms for funding those concepts with a higher degree of integration (including EU funding schemes); and
- in-depth involvement of stakeholders, particularly transport operators.
Methodology:
Improve existing knowledge in the field of operation of intermodal long-to-short-distance interfaces, by:
- providing tools for the characterisation of those interfaces, including the development of key indicators which should facilitate the characterisation of interchanges, and help to identify the associated opportunities for sustainable development associated in each case;
- Streamlining the project cycle, including financial aspects, by identifying key barriers and obstacles within the process;
- Customising research results in the form of ad hoc recommendations and guidelines for each group of stakeholders. Consolidating results from previous research projects and updating the discussion of future trends.
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