Denmark's interest in a new fixed connection over the Öresund has grown, partly due to Donald Trump's attempt to take over Greenland. Former Malmö politician Allan Widman has investigated how Sweden and Denmark can collaborate on a joint inquiry. He proposes preliminary studies and a permanent delegation to maintain momentum on the issue.
Interest in a new fixed connection over the Öresund has historically been uneven. Skåne has shown strong support for a tunnel, while Denmark has been more reserved and the Swedish government not particularly engaged. In recent years, however, the situation has shifted due to several factors.
Last summer, Allan Widman, former Malmö politician, was tasked by the government to propose how a joint Swedish-Danish inquiry into a new Öresund connection could be structured. The proposal was recently handed over to Infrastructure Minister Andreas Carlson (KD). Widman notes that Denmark's stance has changed, not least due to Donald Trump's ambitions regarding Greenland, which has turned a close ally into a potential threat and heightened the need for Scandinavian cooperation, both military and economic.
At the Öresund Bridge's 25th anniversary in July, the Swedish and Danish prime ministers adopted a declaration to make the region safer and more competitive, including increased traffic across the Sound. According to Widman, this facilitates his work. The bridge's capacity for trains is deemed sufficient until 2050, and for roads longer, thanks to planned land-based measures like six investments at Malmö rail yard from 2023.
From 2050, a new connection is needed, especially considering the security policy situation that demands increased transport capacity to and from Sweden. Widman recommends preliminary studies, including one on the security perspective, so a joint inquiry can start in 2027 and last several years. He also proposes a permanent delegation involving Trafikverket, the county administrative board, and Skåne's governor as chair, to retain expertise and avoid starting from scratch each time.
Among discussed options are a tunnel between Helsingborg and Helsingør, a metro between Malmö and Copenhagen, and a tunnel between Landskrona and Copenhagen. A 2021 inquiry found the Helsingborg-Helsingør tunnel economically viable for road traffic but not for trains. Widman highlights challenges with the other options, such as difficulties connecting to Copenhagen's main rail yard and the metro's inability to handle heavy transports like military vehicles. Denmark prioritizes economically viable projects, and Widman emphasizes benefits for Swedish exports to the continent as well as mutual gains for Denmark.
