Extremadura’s rail isolation – connection between Spain and Portugal

11.2.2020

Question for written answer E-000808/2020
to the Commission
Rule 138
José Ramón Bauzá Díaz (Renew)

For a number of Commissions now, developing the rail corridor network has been a top priority. In Spain, the Atlantic and Mediterranean corridors have been promoted as the most effective route to quickly, safely and sustainably connect our country with the rest of the continent.

However, the Iberian Peninsula is more than just its coastal areas, and Spain’s connection with France is as important as its connection with Portugal. The Spanish region of Extremadura stands between Madrid and Lisbon and is a potential commercial hub between both countries that could provide more dynamism and interaction between them.

Despite its unique location and export potential, Extremadura is a rail black spot. It has no efficient passenger or goods transport connections with either Portugal or the rest of Spain. This isolation, which is particularly odd given the region’s potential, is causing an exodus of thousands of Extremadurans, and the region’s state funding levels are, therefore, even lower than they might otherwise be.

Is the Commission considering improving Spanish and Portuguese interconnectivity via Extremadura, the only logical location?