POLISH RAILWAY NETWORK MODERNISATION

Upgrading, modernisation and renewal of the Polish railway network, including access to the main Polish sea ports, and other TEN-T lines

The project is expected to generate time and vehicle operating cost savings by allowing for more efficient use of existing rail capacity. It may also present environmental and safety benefits due to modal shift from road to rail expected to take place because of better rail services. The project will increase the quality of rail services provided in Poland as well as promote travel by rail and will, thereby, enhance sustainable transport in line with EU objectives. The project is mostly located in convergence zones and by facilitating access promotes regional development.

The project consists of several schemes and requirements concerning the environmental impact assessment (EIA) may vary. The pertinence of the schemes to Annexes I and II of the EIA Directive, the screening decisions, the EIA and the development consents are to be reviewed during appraisal. The project's potential impact on protected areas and species, in accordance with the Habitats and Birds Directives, will also be appraised.

The Bank will require the promoter to ensure that contracts for the implementation of the project have been/will be tendered in accordance with the relevant applicable EU procurement legislation: Directive 2014/25/EU or 2004/17/EC, where applicable, as well as Directive 92/13/EEC as interpreted by the Court of Justice of the EU, with publication of tender notices in the Official Journal of the EU, as and where required.