17 November 2023
On the 17th of November, FEPORT replied to the call for feedback regarding the Rail Capacity Regulation proposal, which was published on the 11th July as part of the “Greening Freight Transport” package.
In its reply, FEPORT expressed its support to the objectives of the proposal i.e. to enhance the availability of rail infrastructure capacity by improving processes regarding capacity allocation for passenger and freight trains. In addition, FEPORT stressed that it is key to consult all operational stakeholders including terminal operators in the framework of strategic capacity planning.
FEPORT’s reply also underlined the importance of cooperation between infrastructure managers, railway undertakings and terminal operators on the allocation of rail infrastructure and terminal capacity. However, these coordination requirements should not be to the detriment of terminal operators' ability to negotiate contracts with railway undertakings at their own capacity and, as already recognised by the proposal in the case of infrastructure managers and railway undertakings, it is also crucial that terminal operators receive guarantees on allocated capacity.