Brussels Bubble Band meet to discuss implementation of key EU policies
The first 2025 meeting of the Brussels Bubble Band took place in the POLIS offices on 26 February. Policy operatives across the POLIS membership working in Brussels gathered to discuss priority mobility policy files entering the deployment phase in the new term.
Twice a year, the Brussels Bubble Band convenes policy experts from across the POLIS membership in Brussels to discuss the most pressing EU mobility policy developments. With the 2024-2029 term well underway and critical changes of political direction in sight, this year’s first meeting focused on ‘hot’ files on the mobility policy agenda, the potential impact of EU funding mechanisms reform on local and regional authorities, and the implications of the new mandate focus on competitiveness.
The discussion addressed a range of key regulations and norms that are reaching the deployment phase in the new term to uncover ongoing challenges and opportunities for cities and regions.
From addressing TEN-T and clean vehicles to intelligent, active, and inclusive mobility systems
Key topics included the TEN-T Regulation, where uncertainties remain around the definition of Functional Urban Areas (FUA) and the alignment of urban mobility plans with EU infrastructure requirements. The Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) and the Clean Vehicle Directive (CVD) were also in the spotlight, as local authorities face challenges in scaling up charging infrastructure and ensuring affordability in the transition to cleaner transport.
The group also addressed digitalisation in mobility, particularly the Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) Directive and the new Multimodal Digital Mobility Services (MDMS) Initiative, which will require cities to improve data-sharing and digital ticketing systems. The European Cycling Declaration and urban freight strategies were discussed, with POLIS experts actively contributing to policy recommendations that support greener and more innovative urban logistics.
Additionally, the role of the Social Climate Fund (SCF) in tackling transport poverty was a major focus as cities work to ensure EU funding is effectively allocated to improve mobility access for vulnerable communities.
As EU policy priorities shift towards competitiveness, participants emphasised the importance of maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability and climate goals. Ensuring that cities and regions have the necessary tools and support to implement these policies will be critical in shaping the future of urban mobility across Europe, and POLIS will be there to help its members every step of the way.
A full report of the event is available for POLIS members here.
- Related Members
FrankfurtRheinMain Region
Gothenburg
Lille Metropole
Noord Brabant Province
Noord-Holland Province
Twente Region
