Less vehicles using the Øresund Bridge

Economic strain for company as region sees decline in commuter traffic

Despite a 6.5 percent growth in freight traffic, the Øresund Bridge is experiencing a fall in vehicle numbers.

In 2013, 18,337 vehicles crossed the bridge every day – considerably below its most pessimistic traffic forecast of 20,000-30,000 vehicles per day.

“Of course it is something we are focused on: that the traffic development has not been as favourable as we had hoped.” said Kaj V Holm, the financial director at Sund & Bælt Holding, which owns half of the Øresundsbro Association.

According to Holm, the decline in commuter traffic in the Øresund region has had a strong effect on figures.

READ ALSO: Ferries: Øresund Bridge receives illegal subsidy

Lost income
The development, taken over a period of four years, reveals a 1.2 percent decline in vehicles crossing the bridge.

Original budget repayments for the bridge that were expected to be completed within 30 years of its 2000 opening will now probably be pushed back to 2034.

Growth in non-commuter traffic
Despite the economic strain, growth in non-commuter traffic has increased, however.

In 2013, some 300,000 private motorists took advantage of a discount offer that offered cheaper prices for multiple crossings, according to the Ingeniøren website.

TOP STORIES

  • The international who shaped Copenhagen

    The international who shaped Copenhagen

    Anna Maria Indrio is one of the most important architects in Denmark, having contributed to shaping Copenhagen into what it is today. Among her best-known projects are the extension of SMK and Arken, as well as the Natural History Museum and the Darwin Centre in London. She moved here 60 years ago, when “Copenhagen was gray and dormant. Predictions suggested it would become depopulated. But putting people at the center changed everything,” she said

  • Danish government passes amendment to increase citizenship fee by 50%

    Danish government passes amendment to increase citizenship fee by 50%

    Fees were raised to reflect processing costs and curb repeat applications, creating debate over whether the new charges erect barriers to political participation for internationals.

  • Internationals’ labour contributes 361 billion DKK to Denmark’s GDP, and it is growing strongly every year

    Internationals’ labour contributes 361 billion DKK to Denmark’s GDP, and it is growing strongly every year

    According to a report by the Danish Chamber of Commerce, internationals’ contribution is 12% of the country’s GDP. In 2023, it was 322 billion DKK, and in 2008, it was 136 billion DKK. “Internationals make a gigantic difference in our prosperity and welfare,” comments Morten Langager, the Director of Dansk Erhverv.

  • Inside Denmark’s innovation engine

    Inside Denmark’s innovation engine

    With half of its staff being international, the BioInnovation Institute reflects Denmark’s broader transformation into a global innovation hub. But can the country—and Europe—keep up the pace? “If reforms are made now, we can close the gap in ten years,” explains BII’s CEO

  • Denmark launches massive investment in the navy

    Denmark launches massive investment in the navy

    Two months ago, the Danish PM announced that military equipment should be purchased in a hurry. The first plans for the sea are now ready. Additional plans for warships will follow this summer.

  • International designers struggle to find jobs in Denmark

    International designers struggle to find jobs in Denmark

    Many internationals come to Denmark to work as designers, but the field appears to be one of the hardest to break into. The Copenhagen Post spoke with two internationals struggling to find their way into the industry.

Connect club

Connect Club is your gateway to a vibrant programme of events and an international community in Denmark.

Sign up here

Career

Want to advertise your job with CPH Post?

Contact us

Jobs