Norway to explore future of new intercity line

The Norwegian government has commissioned infrastructure manager Jernbaneverket to draw up plans for a new intercity rail route between Hønefoss and Sandvika.

Transport Minister Ketil Solvik Olsen announced plans to invest NOK 20 million on studies for the proposed Ringerike Line which, once complete, would shorten travel times between Hønefoss, Sandvika and the capital of Oslo.

Jernbaneverket will examine the proposed route of the new line and consider whether the project could be delivered through a public-private partnership (PPP).

Announcing the planned investment, Norway’s Ministry of Transport said the Ringerike Line would become one of four new planned intercity routes, alongside lines connecting Oslo with Skien, Lillehammer and Halden.

The government has said it will present the findings of the research later in the year during the presentation of the national budget for 2015.




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