Consultations and related analysis in the framework of impact assessment for the amendment of Combined Transport Directive (92/106/EEC) : final report

The Directive 92/106/EEC is an EU instrument aiming to support the shift of road traffic to combined transport (CT) operations and thus reduce negative externalities of goods transport. A REFIT evaluation concluded that the Directive continues to be relevant for achieving EU transport policy's objectives but its effectiveness and efficiency could be improved. The Commission decided to launch an impact assessment on the amendment of the Directive under the 2017 work programme. In this framework, the Commission carried out several consultations targeting at various stakeholder groups. The objective was to receive opinions on policy options and their impacts as concerns the amendment of the Directive. A three-month open public consultation mainly targeted at citizens and organisations who take general interest in a sustainable EU transport system. Stakeholders who have specific knowledge of and interest in CT operations were invited to contributing to a three-week targeted consultation and, additionally, attending a one-day meeting. The Commission also held a meeting with representatives from national authorities. The responsiveness to the consultations especially from the private sector was very high. Stakeholders clearly advocated an amendment and modernisation of the Directive and more effective support measures. A majority suggested a more flexible CT definition as concerns the road leg.