Abstract
In the paper a brief theoretical consideration is given of the relationship between transport infrastructure and regional economic development. An overview is given of the effects of transport infrastructure that can be distinguised. Some fundamental developments in society are dealt with, and the influence of these on the role of transport infrastructure is explained. Different economic approaches to evaluating infrastructure are presented. In the paper some points for attention for carrying out and judging impact assessments are formulated. A case study, the Dutch Betuwe-line, is discussed to illustrate the issue. (A)