The recently announced M5 metro line in Copenhagen, designed to enhance connectivity between Copenhagen Central Station and the newly developed Lynetteholmen island, is facing criticism from neighboring municipalities Frederiksberg and Dragør. The criticism mainly revolves around proposed additional charges for airport-bound metro users, sparking concerns among residents and local leaders.
Frederiksberg mayor opposes airport metro fare hike
Frederiksberg’s Social Democratic mayor, Michael Vindfeldt, has openly criticized the financial plan for the M5 metro, specifically opposing the new fee of DKK 20 (EUR 2.68) planned for metro rides to Copenhagen Airport.
In a statement, Vindfeldt emphasized that Frederiksberg municipality was excluded from negotiations surrounding the metro expansion. He argued that increasing public transport fares was an inappropriate funding approach, suggesting instead utilizing funds collected from parking fees in Frederiksberg and Copenhagen—amounting to over DKK 300 million annually (EUR 40.3 million).
Vindfeldt clarified his stance:
“Much more metro—yes, please. But without fare increases.”
He acknowledged the potential benefits of future extensions to Frederiksberg, specifically mentioning stations at Gammel Kongevej and Forum, which would enhance connections and mobility across the capital region. (Read more about the residents’ concerns regarding the M5 metro.)
Dragør mayor expresses concerns for local residents
Kenneth Gøtterup, the Conservative mayor of Dragør, also voiced concerns regarding the additional airport metro fee, fearing unintended impacts on Dragør residents who frequently use Copenhagen Airport as their main transportation hub.
In a formal request, Gøtterup has asked for a meeting with Copenhagen’s mayor, Lars Weiss, seeking clarity and reassurance about the announced airport surcharge. Although Weiss initially suggested that Dragør residents might be exempt, Gøtterup remains cautious, stating:
“It is also my assessment that there could be considerations regarding public transport for Dragør’s residents to and from the airport that might not have been accounted for.”
He emphasized the importance of an official confirmation to reassure residents worried about potentially increased commuting costs.
Broader implications for regional cooperation
The critiques from Frederiksberg and Dragør highlight broader issues concerning regional cooperation and equitable cost-sharing in major infrastructure projects. The lack of consultation noted by Mayor Vindfeldt underlines the challenges faced in collaborative metropolitan governance.
As negotiations continue, the municipalities involved will seek common ground to balance effective public transportation expansion with fair cost distribution, ensuring widespread community support for the ambitious M5 project. (For further details on the initial announcement of the M5 metro line, see our previous article on Copenhagen’s new M5 Metro.)
