ECF calls for better integration of cycling into TEN-T

The European Cyclists' Federation (ECF) is advocating better integrating cycling into the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T). Its specific demands include incorporating EuroVelo into TEN-T and systematically integrating active travel infrastructure into all TEN-T projects and network development. These moves would help improve the connectivity, efficiency, and sustainability of this network across the continent, ECF claims.

The TEN-T is the EU's primary network of roads, railway lines, inland waterways, ports, maritime shipping routes, airports, and railroad terminals. Unfortunately, cycling is not yet included in the network.

The EU institutions currently review the network's guidelines, with the European Commission presenting a revision proposal in December 2021. ECF (the European umbrella federation of civil society organisations working for improved and enhanced cycling infrastructure and services), analysed the proposal addressing:

• Positive inclusions, such as requirement for urban nodes to adopt Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans.
• Missed opportunities, like no connections between TEN-T railways and active modes of transport outside urban nodes.
• Threats to cycling, including a new requirement to upgrade TEN-T roads to (almost) motorway standard.

ECF is taking this chance to call for improved integration of cycling into the network to promote active mobility and achieve a positive modal shift towards sustainable transport. Their specific demands are:

• Integrating EuroVelo, the European cycle route network, into TEN-T.
• Systematically including elements of walking and cycling infrastructure into all TEN-T projects and network development.

Read ECF's official statement about it here