Finally news about the Norrbothnia Line – but now a comprehensive approach is needed on the Malmbanan

Region Norrbotten welcomes the government's announcement that gives green light for construction to begin Norrbothniabanan distance between Deaf and Skellefteå. The decision constitutes one important first steps to improve the connections in northern Sweden. The is a nkey factor for both commuting and industrial development in the region.

With the decision to start construction, it is now time to move forward and find the solutions required to realize the entire Norrbotten Line. The stretch between Luleå and Skellefteå must receive a financing solution in the next national plan and then be built quickly and efficiently. Region Norrbotten's companies Norrbotnibanan AB has developed a proposal to form a special project company that will accelerate completion. 

The government's announcement on Tuesday also includes several extensions of junction stations along the Malmbanan. But the investment need is greater than that. It is also important to quickly resolve the remaining issues in order to start building double tracks from Boden all the way to the port of Luleå. 

– In addition to the Norrbotten Line, it is of great importance that investments in the Malmbanan Line are also intensified. The government's announcement of the start of construction for a number of junction stations is positive, but hardly corresponds to the investments that are actually required for the entire stretch between Luleå–Kiruna–Narvik, says Anders Öberg, Chairman of the Regional Board of Region Norrbotten.

“Step in the right direction”

For many years, the Norrbotten Region, together with several stakeholders, has pointed out the importance of the Norrbotniabanan and an expanded Malmbana. Not only for northern Sweden, but also for Sverige AB.  

– Today's announcement is a step in the right direction. Today we can also give ourselves a pat on the back for tirelessly continuing to influence and explain to governments why this is necessary for the future of Swedish industry, says Janus Brandin, Regional Development Director at Region Norrbotten.  

Region Norrbotten will be an active and constructive partner in quickly and effectively driving forward the necessary changes – so that both the Norrbotniabanan and the Malmbanan can be realized at a pace that meets today's demands.

Contact

Anders Oberg 
Chairman of the Regional Board (S) 
070 698 35 63 
anders.oberg@regionnorrbotten.se

Janus Brandin
Regional Development Director
073 -820 67 34
janus.brandin@norrbotten.se