User charges for road infrastructure in certain European Union member states

New regulations enforced by the European Commission have greatly extended the possibilities to levy charges. The regulations include not only the TEN-T network, but also all motorways in Europe. The directive has given Member States the opportunity to charge heavy goods vehicles in a way to balance not only the costs of infrastructure but also those connected to noise and pollution caused by road traffic. The new provisions have enabled Member States to increase the charge during peak periods and to lower it in the off-peak hours in order to reduce traffic more effectively. The binding norms provide that the revenue from the charges should be destined to enhancing the stability of the transport section. The new rules provide a strong incentive to set aside new revenues from charging to finance certain types of transport projects. Poland has adapted very well to this new situation. The ever-increasing network of toll roads gives new opportunities for the development of transport. The increasing number of national and foreign hauliers guarantees constant investment in the development of road infrastructure and therefore a good use of the country’s geographical location.