In this article, the development of a system of benchmarks is discussed which serve as international performance indicators for inter-urban infrastructural networks in North West Europe. The benchmark system comprises four main parts: (1) basic indicators (GDP, population, network length, fuel prices, labour, etc.); (2) passenger transport (road, rail); (3) goods transport (road, rail, barge); and (4) airports (passengers). At present, the benchmark system covers 43 regions in the UK, Germany, Benelux, and France. The basic indicators show differences in, among other things, road, rail, and water networks. The travelling distances and times between medium-sized and large cities for more than 10,000 relations were examined. Road congestion influences and differences in travel costs per kilometre and per hour were incorporated so that the general costs of inter-urban travel within and between regions could be estimated. Further analyses were made relating to rail travel, goods transport, and air travel. The data show interesting differences between regions in North West Europe. The system also allows preliminary screening to be done, for policy purposes.
Abstract