Eurotrans’ missions allow the firm to be a witness to the evolutionary changes countries undergo. The dynamics identified in Luxembourg, Great Britain and Scandinavia tend to contrast with France’s situation. The disparities stem from the assimilation of the notions of trust, well-being and the ability to lead financial projects. When investment capitals are plentiful, the ability to mobilise and conceive leading projects is the key to growth, value creation and sustainable development, over and above the effects of demographics, work and innovation. http://epp.eurostat.cec.eu.int/portal

Urban planning regulations in France require cities to implement a 10 year urban development plan. The availability of suitable areas for land development plays an important role in the growth of the local economy, both in financial and employment terms. Decisions on the matter rest with local politicians and their willingness to favour a vision of renewal and development, overcoming short term constraints and oppositions. The quantified evaluations and reports Eurotrans is capable of bringing to such cases are a valuable resource. www.lemoniteur-expert.com

The studies that Eurotrans has undertaken in Africa show the use of pipelines to be a reliable, economical and clean way of transporting all types of fluids. Despite the advantages of its low cost and minor environmental impact, it is less talked about than road, rail or water transport. The difficulties lie with the Return on Investment period which would seem to require specific methods of financing. www.trapil.fr

Public/Private Partnership schemes are a new way of financing transport infrastructure. They allow for a reduction in the implementation time of projects whilst bringing on board sound project management partners. The specifics of transport projects require a reasonable assessment of the different ways added value is generated through the infrastructure, highlighting the importance of having feasibility studies at hand such as the ones undertaken by Eurotrans on the Seine-Nord Europe canals and ports project. www.ppp.minefi.gouv.fr

The war of exports is not confined to the industrial sector. The provision of consultancy, engineering, and other study-led services, can generate useful resources in maintaining an equilibrium in the balance of payments. Institutional systems could benefit from promoting internationally-driven networks of specialised knowledge-based services, such as the network Eurotrans has set up to work on international transport projects. www.ubifrance.fr

Renowned feasibility studies have mentioned that a reduction in the usage of fossil fuels/petroleum is to occur. This projected decline could occur between 2020 and 2035 according to the scenarios drawn up. This is an important element to consider when undertaking preparatory transport infrastructure studies, such as the ones Eurotrans is carrying out on the Saône-Rhin canal project, and when projecting long term strategy evolutions for firms.
Revue Transports N° 439 Dossier Energie & Transports 09/06 www.editcom.fr

The launching of the new Public Limited Company which is to operate Lyon’s Airports from the 4th March 2007 preceded Toulouse’s launch on the 16th March and is to be followed by Bordeaux and Nice whose launches are planned for April 2007. Wishing them the same success achieved by the Chambers of Commerce. Transports Actualités du 23 Mars 2007. www.groupeliaisons.fr

“Decentralisation has taken place in France, entrusting the Ports that operate on behalf of public interest to the regional authorities”. Calais’s 41.5 million ton traffic and 8.4% growth continue to boost the otherwise weaker 3.2% growth of other French ports. Transports Actualités du 9 Mars 2007. www.groupeliaisons.fr

The latest benchmarking studies undertaken have confirmed that European distribution centres are distancing themselves from the previously concentrated centres based in the Netherlands and Flanders, and are relocating in Wallonia and Northern France. The Seine-Nord canal has enabled the Picardie region to improve its ranking. In the Nord Pas de Calais region, business developments are multiplying at the Delta3 combined transport terminal, hub which is undertaking an extension programme. Dunkerque and Calais, along with Arras, Cambrai and Valenciennes, are now present on the market. www.lloyd.be

As supporters of interchange platforms developments between collective and individual transport systems, we have taken an interest in the city of Le Mans’ projects, whilst larger French cities are dragging their feet. www.ville-lemans.fr

The Marco Polo2 programme has been launched and boasts an increased budget (400Million Euros) for the 2007-2013 period, but nevertheless stands below the expectations of Jacques Barrot. The programme has been extended to the EU’s neighbouring countries. The first call for projects has been published. Dec. 06. http://ec.europa.eu/transport/marcopolo/index_en.htm