Residents near Copenhagen’s upcoming metro line M5 have voiced significant concerns regarding plans to build portions of the new metro above ground. The metro extension, announced as part of a broader urban development initiative, has sparked local frustration, particularly among the communities at Margretheholm near Refshaleøen.
Concerns over green space and community impact
Mikkel Jochimsen, chairperson of the residents’ association Udsigten, representing over 2,000 residents in Margretheholm, highlighted the community’s opposition to an elevated metro segment planned to pass through their neighborhood.
According to Jochimsen, the above-ground metro structure would severely disrupt existing green areas, notably impacting a large recreational space used as a football field and affecting the local marina.
“A large portion of the green area here will be affected. We’re unhappy about the massive through-traffic that an elevated railway will bring,” Jochimsen stated.
While acknowledging the benefits of improved public transportation (see our coverage on Copenhagen’s M5 Metro announcement), he urged policymakers to allocate additional funding to ensure the entire metro line runs underground, preserving the area’s character and communal spaces.
Decision still pending on elevated metro
The new M5 line will be developed in two phases. The initial phase, connecting Copenhagen Central Station to Prags Boulevard, is planned to be fully underground and operational by 2036. However, the second phase, running through Margretheholm to Lynetteholmen, is currently projected as an above-ground elevated rail, set for completion in 2045.
Acting Mayor of Copenhagen Lars Weiss reassured residents that the final decision on this elevated section has not yet been made. Weiss indicated that further discussions will be held, allowing future city leaders to revisit whether the section should be above or below ground.
Budgetary challenges
The primary challenge hindering an entirely underground metro line is financial. Copenhagen Municipality, responsible for most of the project’s funding, must adhere to its fixed construction budget, known as the ‘anlægsramme.’ Any additional funds spent on burying the metro line underground would consequently limit available resources for other essential infrastructure projects, such as school construction and daycare facility renovations.
Despite these fiscal constraints, residents remain hopeful for a solution prioritizing community preservation.
Previous experiences with elevated metro lines
Existing elevated metro lines, such as those running along Amager Strand and Ørestads Boulevard, have led to similar community concerns. Bjarne Ackey, a long-term resident next to the elevated metro near Amager Strand, expressed regret over the lost potential for green spaces and open vistas.
“It’s unfortunate it was built as an elevated line. It creates a wall-like structure that divides the community,” Ackey explained, noting that the elevated tracks significantly affect views and limit recreational space.
Criticisms from local politicians (as discussed in our article on criticism from Frederiksberg and Dragør mayors) have further highlighted the complexities of balancing infrastructure development with local needs.
As discussions continue, the residents of Margretheholm remain vigilant, advocating for a metro solution that respects both the environment and community integrity. The definitive decision regarding the elevated portion is expected no earlier than 2035.
