E12 Atlantica Transport

Tools for cross-border cooperation

For years, the Kvarken Council, MidtSkandia and the Blue Highway have worked together to increase cross-border understanding and collaboration along the E12 route. The most important achievements of this cooperation are obtaining TENT-T comprehensive status for the E12, as well as the port of Umeå, and several important transport inf rastructure investments. The project E12 Atlantica Transport aims at further strengthening this Nordic cooperation, by creating tools for future collaboration in the fields of transport and inf rastructure.The project creates a joint vision and strategic goals, along with the guidelines for how to carry out these in practice. Strengthened cooperation and management structures are crucial in order to be successful when competing over the long term for the important national and international infrastructure investment funds.

A functional transport system

Efficient transportation of goods, people and data is important in creating an attractive environment for business, residents and tourists. A well-developed transport system also creates positive social effects, such as cultural exchangesand co-operation in various areas, such as education, healthcare and logistics.

A cross-border cooperation model

E12 Atlantica Transport aims at creating an evolved cross-border working model. The project is divided into three phases.

1. A joint knowledge base to create an understanding of transport demands

The project conducts a cross-border system analysis and collects cross-border statistics throughout the region. Thus, we create a better understanding of today ́s transport system and future development needs.

2. Common long-term priorities

To successfully compete for infrastructure investment funds, a long-term vision and a common priority of actions for developing the transport system are needed. The cross-border traffic strategy constitutes the map and compass of the partnership. The selected goals are evaluated by statistical indicators allowing feedback, evaluation, and input that influences development of the transport system.

3. Platform for future collaboration

The partnership has maintained a successful cooperation for some time now, thanks to different Interreg projects, among other activities. However, there is a need to create a long-term structure for cross-border collaboration that guarantees continued sustainability, thereby reducing project- and individual dependency. E12 Atlantica Transport suggests a structure for future collaboration aimed at strengthening long-term collaboration.