Integrating Cycling in the TransEuropean Transport Network

Integrating cycling in the Trans-European transport network: From TEN-T regulation to practical implementation 

The Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) is a network of roads, railway lines, inland waterways, ports, maritime shipping routes and airports. It is not very often associated with cycling, but TEN-T projects can have huge impact on conditions for active mobility. Up until now, often the impact has been negative, with a new ring road or an upgraded rail line creating a barrier for walking and cycling, but in some cases these projects have also been used as an opportunity to create new connections or even prioritise active mobility.

Key recommendations

For the past five years, the European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF) has worked on integrating cycling in the regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on Union guidelines for the development of the trans-European transport network (TEN-T regulation). In 2024, for the first time ever, promoting active modes of transport has been included in TEN-T objectives, highlighted for synergies, included in general priorities for the whole network and additional priorities for railways, inland waterways and roads. The revised regulation also recognises the critical role of urban nodes, stipulating the need of integrating cycling with long-distance transport and modal shift towards active modes.

The document is intended for the technical experts working in administrations tasked with implementing this regulation and specific TEN-T projects. It can also be used by local and regional authorities involved in planning and implementation of cycle networks, but it assumes a degree of familiarity with the TEN-T regulation, focusing only on its new aspects most relevant for cycling. It provides and analyses excerpts from the regulation, and follows with a brief practical advice on how to optimally integrate cycling in different types of TEN-T projects and different aspects of project preparation.