The North East Cargo Link (NECL) II project continues the work done under the first NECL project to develop the Midnordic Green Transport Corridor which runs across Norway, Sweden and Finland and aims to improve east-west freight links, as well as passenger connections.
- 01 February 2016
The project has pointed out the most important targets for investments and has been part of several positive changes along the corridor, for example the border crossing development into Russia and the electrification of the Meråker Line.
NECL II aimed to develop intermodal transport and related infrastructure, thus contributing to finding green and economical solutions to transport problems and allowing users to choose the best mode of transport for their needs.
Development of an ICT portal for matching transport modes was pinpointed by NECL I as a priority for the corridor. Development of a prototype created prior to the launch of NECL II continued, with the aim of turning it into a fully operational system for freight and logistic centres. The corridor's infrastructure needs were another focus. Studies led to compilation of reports for use by authorities in deciding on deployment of and investment in transport infrastructure.
Other studies aimed to promote business and trade by creating a basis for decision-making on development and implementation of transport and logistical solutions in the corridor. This was mainly done by generating cargo flow, infrastructure and profitability figures, as well as forecasts and other data for potential investors in cargo services.
Project outcomes used in international studies
NECL II studies are often used as a reference in international and domestic studies and have played a role in development of multimodal terminals and business areas at Ånge (Sweden), Seinäjoki (Finland) and Parikkala on the Finnish-Russian border. NECL II documents and statements are also included in the Swedish National Transport Plan for 2050.
Lobbying by the partners helped to get a commitment to electrify the Meråker railway line in the Norwegian National Transport Plan 2014-23 and secured improvements to the line between Seinäjoki and Kaskinen. In addition, NECL II was a catalyst for developments in Russia such as construction of new motorways from Lake Ladoga to the Arctic Sea and to the border crossing at Parikkala.
Total investment and EU funding
Total investment for the project “North East Cargo Link II” is EUR 2 696 320, of which the EU’s European Regional Development Fund is contributing EUR 1 939 440 from the Operational Programme “Baltic Sea Region” for the 2007 to 2013 programming period