In order to visualise the potential of magnetic levitation railways in the Netherlands, Railforum has sketched visions of the Netherlands in 2025 and 2050. These assume that magnetic levitation railways have been built as a new mode of public transport. In providing this vision, the railway's potential is presented in such a way that a number of strategic questions are raised. According to Railforum Nederland, greater clarity is needed to answer these questions before a decision on whether or not to build the magnetic levitation railway can be taken. The questions concern such issues as desired spatio-economic developments in the Netherlands and their repercussions for existing forms of mass transport. Another issue that needs to be addressed is whether these developments can be achieved by other means, without building the magnetic levitation railway. Railforum also points out that there is a need for greater competition, even during the strategic planning phase of a project. (A) For the covering abstract of the conference see ITRD E206647.
Abstract