Sorry, Sunnhordland. Bergen does not know its own best

As part of the minority in the city council, KrF has always been positive about the Hordfast project. Not because it is problem-free or without consequences, but because the consequence of not connecting our long county through the ferry-free E39 inhibits regional development and puts Bergen at risk of ending up in a long-term backwater. It is rare that an expensive road project is a socio-economic “no-brainer”. Nevertheless, Hordfast is just that: Ambitious, value-creating and socially beneficial. It is therefore disheartening to witness a narrative where one gets stuck in the downsides of the project. If we are to manage to develop the “gold coast”, we must start looking at the possibilities. Both for regional development, our common labor market and a more targeted land policy that protects important natural values ​​also outside the Hordfast route.

Now the understanding of the crisis must begin to affect my city council colleagues. After many years of targeted work, an alliance between the county, Bergen and the surrounding municipalities managed to ensure completion of K5 Arna-Stanghelle. It was both important and right, but now Bergen’s politicians must understand that it is fateful time for Hordfast. Because Bergen needs Sunnhordland. With Rogfast, the southern part of the county will easily turn to forward-leaning Roglanders, while a majority over two city council terms in Bergen (with both Labor and Conservative city councils) opposes Hordfast. It could be a disaster for Bergen, Sunnhordland and Vestland counties.

Now “the adults” in Bergen city council must come together in a cross-political agreement on the construction of the ferry-free E39. A project the business world has been clamoring for for years and which is a necessity for Bergen, Sunnhordland and the rest of the county. It says a value-creating region – built for the future.

All good.