This is the opinion of Sylvia Sedlacek, director of Mobility & Transport at KfW IPEX-Bank in Germany. She is responsible for financing e.g. infrastructure projects, train stations and railway infrastructure.
She made the statement in the autumn of 2021 in connection with a meeting with our head of funding, Sven Erik Pløen. Bane NOR Eiendom AS has a long-term "green" loan from them linked to train workshops. KfW is one of the world's most solid banks with a green mandate and which finances a lot of infrastructure, including train-related activities around the world, primarily Europe and Africa.
- My colleagues and I travel to many countries in the course of our work. We always pay special attention to train stations, including when we are inside them; and we are well-equipped to make comparisons thanks to the many trips we take.
My first experience at the Oslo Sentralstasjon was a few years ago when I arrived with the Flytoget one evening and wanted to grab a quick bite to eat. Without any prior knowledge of the place, I happened to end up in the Østbanehallen. I am impressed by what has emerged there – the place has real character, with a nice atmosphere about it and good restaurants. It is remarkable how this setting has been created, maintained, and cultivated. And even the small shops that made their homes in a cozy, small shopping mall invite passers-by to linger.
This combination of beautifully updated historic architecture, good food options, and relaxed shopping in a clean, safe, and positive environment does not make people feel as if they are in a railway station when they are at Oslo Sentralstasjon, says Sylvia Sedlacek.
Thank you so much for sharing, Sylvia!