News from the board

News from the Board of Directors, 28 February 2025

Passenger numbers for January 2025 were 11 million, which is 3.1 per cent higher than the same month last year. The M4 extension in particular saw a strong start to the year with around 500,000 passengers in January, which is 50 per cent above expectations. At the same time, the Metro has maintained its high operational stability.

The Board of Directors approved Metroselskabet's annual report for 2024, which shows a satisfactory profit before depreciation and amortisation of DKK 244 million, an improvement of DKK 136 million compared to the previous year. The increase was partly due to around six million more passengers travelling on the Metro in 2024, bringing the total number of passengers to 126 million, which is the highest number of passengers in one year in Metro's history. 

However, despite the growth, The Company did not fully meet the total passenger expectations in 2024 - mainly due to lower growth on M3.

‘Metro's financial performance reflects both solid passenger growth and efficient operations. With the opening of the M4 extension, we have strengthened the capital's infrastructure, and it is positive to see that we are exceeding our own expectations for passenger numbers at the new stations. In the coming period, we will increase our efforts to highlight the benefits of the M3 and the connection with other modes of transport,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Board of Metroselskabet. 

Metroselskabet's annual report consists of three parts: the management report, the sustainability report and the financial statements. The report provides an overview of The Company's financial performance, strategic development and focus areas over the past year. It will now be sent to the owners for final approval at the partnership meeting in April. 

On the commercial front, The Company continues to work on developing new sources of revenue and strengthening collaboration with external partners. The Board was briefed on ongoing initiatives, including new advertising formats, better utilisation of station facilities and an increased focus on data-supported marketing to attract more passengers to M3/M4.

News from the board, 20 December 2024 

For the third consecutive month with a passenger record, November was the month with the highest passenger numbers in Metro's history. Metro's passenger numbers in November totalled 11.8 million passengers. Passenger numbers for November 2024 were also 7 per cent higher than the corresponding month last year. Year-to-month, the realised passenger number is 114 million passengers. 

Passenger numbers for the new stations at M4 Sydhavn are still around double what was expected, while the realised passenger numbers for M3/M4 are still below expectations. M1/M2 is within expectations. 

‘We are approaching a total annual result for 2024, where the Metro has achieved good passenger growth, but unfortunately we did not reach the total passenger expectation for the year of 137 million. This was partly due to the fact that the planned closure of the M3/M4 to connect the Sydhavn line to the metro network meant that many customers found other travel options, which they subsequently took longer to return from than The Company had estimated. At the same time, passenger numbers have also been affected by structural challenges, as more people are working more from home as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the expected transfer of passengers from buses to the M3 line has not taken place to a sufficient extent,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Board of Metroselskabet. 

The Company realised early on that the closure at the beginning of the year would have a major negative impact on the passenger forecast, which made it possible to make a number of internal reprioritisations to counteract the lower revenue.

At the meeting, the Board was informed that Metro's overall operational stability has been very close to or above 99 per cent in most months of the year. In November, the overall operational stability was 99.1 per cent.

News from the Board of Directors, 29 November 2024

The Board was briefed on Metro's passenger numbers, which in October totalled 11.4 million passengers, which is the highest passenger numbers for a month measured to date in Metro's history. Passenger numbers for October 2024 were 7 per cent higher than the corresponding month in 2023; an increase of 7 per cent.

Year-to-month, the realised passenger number is 102 million passengers. Passenger numbers for the new stations at M4 Sydhavn are still approximately double what was expected, while the realised passenger numbers for M3/M4 are still below expectations, while M1/M2 are within expectations.

At the meeting, the Board also discussed Metroselskabet's work on climate-proofing the Metro. The Metro must be continuously protected against flooding from storm surges and extreme rain that can affect the infrastructure and operation of the Metro. As part of the ongoing efforts, The Company contributes to the work on a joint storm surge protection programme for Copenhagen.

The main priority of the work is to help ensure a common external protection of Copenhagen so that individual citizens, companies and public institutions - including infrastructure and utility owners - do not have to protect themselves individually.

‘The Metro has a generally high level of security, so it can withstand so-called 2000-year events for 100 years from the date of commissioning. However, global climate change means that it doesn't make sense to focus on the Metro in isolation. The Metro is part of the capital, and climate-proofing Copenhagen is also climate-proofing the Metro. The Company is therefore actively contributing to the work of flood-proofing Copenhagen together with other infrastructure owners, ministries and other authorities,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Metroselskabet Board of Directors.

At the meeting, the board was also informed that Metro's overall operational stability has been very close to or above 99 per cent in most months of the year. In October, the overall operational stability was 99.3 per cent. However, the customer experience on the M4 extension may continue to be affected by the completion work taking place at the new stations in some situations in the coming period.

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News from the Board of Directors, 31 October 2024

The Board was informed about Metro's passenger numbers, which in September totalled 11.2 million passengers, which is the highest passenger numbers for a month measured to date in Metro's history.  Passenger numbers for September 2024 were 9 per cent higher than the corresponding month in 2023.

Year-to-month, the realised passenger numbers are 90.8 million passengers and the passenger numbers for the new stations at M4 Sydhavn have been approximately double what was expected. However, the realised passenger numbers for M3/M4 are still below expectations, while M1/M2 is close to expectations. 

 

In October, the Metro celebrated its 22nd anniversary, and for Metroselskabet this means an increased focus on maintenance and development of the system in the coming years, so that the Metro can continue to deliver the same high level and live up to passengers' future expectations. In addition to maintenance, this also requires reinvestment and the development of new methods that can help ensure the high level of service to passengers alongside Metro's general maintenance.

 

At the meeting, the Board approved the financial framework for initiating planned reinvestments in the Metro in operation (M1-M4) in the period 2025-2028. The Metroselskabet's long-term budget includes funding for the expected need for reinvestments. The Company's strategic objectives for investments in the Metro in operation are as follows: High level of safety, min. 99 per cent operational stability, min. 95 per cent customer satisfaction, min. 35 per cent capacity expansion on M1/M2 and a continuously reduced climate impact.

 

After the opening of the M4 extension to Sydhavn and Valby at the end of June, operations on M3/M4 have reached a stable, high level. At the meeting, the board was informed that the M3/M4 had an operational stability of 99.5 per cent in September.

 

‘It is Metroselskabet's most important core task to ensure that the trains run on time around the clock so that passengers have an easy and efficient travel experience of high quality. Therefore, it is very gratifying to see the positive development in Metro's operational stability after the opening of the M4 extension, new software updates in May and June and eight third-generation trains in operation on M1/M2’, says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Board of Metroselskabet.

The Metro's overall operational stability has been very close to or above 99 per cent in most months of the year. Despite the stable operation, the customer experience on the M4 extension will, however, in the coming period in some situations still be affected by the completion work taking place at the new stations.

 

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News from the Board of Directors, 30 August 2024

Metroselskabet is tasked with preparing a masterplan and subsequently developing areas at København Syd in Valby. The task was approved by the Danish Parliament by law in 2018, with the aim of ensuring co-financing of the costs of an underground metro station at København Syd. The Company's Board of Directors has now approved the initiation of the process to secure the right partner/investor for the project. The process will be initiated when the City of Copenhagen has approved the initial report for a local plan during September. 

‘Metroselskabet has been tasked with developing an area at København Syd with housing, businesses, shops and other urban life functions that support the new station's future role as one of Denmark's largest stations. The development project is called København Syd By and will help create a unique and vibrant neighbourhood in Valby that both marks the city's major traffic hub and supports a good and safe local environment with easy access to the station,’ says Chairman Jørn Neergaard Larsen.

 

In parallel with the preparatory work, Metroselskabet has over the past two years conducted extensive involvement and dialogue with local committees, organisations, neighbours and citizens with an interest in the development of the area.

 

The Metro's operational stability has been developing positively after new software updates in May and June and the commissioning of the eight extra trains on M1/M2. At the meeting, the board was informed that the operational stability reached 99.5 per cent on M1/M2 in July - and the good results are also reflected in the operational stability of the overall system. In July, the Metro's overall operational stability was 99.3 per cent, while on M3/M4 - especially considering the recent opening of the M4 to Sydhavn and Valby - it was also at a satisfactory level with 99.0 per cent on-time departures.

 

The Metro had 9.0 million passengers in July and has seen a growth in passenger numbers up to July 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. Year-to-month, the realised passenger number is 68.7 million passengers, which is 11% below the expected number for 2024. On the M4 extension to Sydhavn and Valby, the five new stations have got off to a great start. Since the opening day on 22 June and up to and including 31 July, there have been around 570,000 passengers - or around 14,000 per day. This is almost twice as many as expected.

 

At the meeting, the Board also approved the tender and contract strategy for the extension of the M4 from Orientkaj to Ydre Nordhavn. The project consists of two new stations that will be connected to the M4 and built as an elevated railway. A construction law is already in place, as the M3 line law also includes Ydre Nordhavn. The construction will take place in an urban development area where there will be relatively few neighbours and businesses affected, and the extension is expected to open in 2030. 

 

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News from the Board of Directors, 26 June 2024

On 22 June, the M4 extension to Sydhavn and Valby opened, and at the meeting, the board received an evaluation of the inauguration and the goals set for the opening. The aim was to get as many passengers as possible to use the M4 so that the opening supports the passenger recovery and the overall passenger growth in the Metro. The target for the opening was a total attendance of more than 5000 guests on the opening day. As a result, more than 10,000 citizens attended the opening party at Mozarts Plads, while 34,000 passengers used the five new stations on the opening day.

‘It was with great joy and pride that we welcomed passengers to the extension of the M4 line and the five new metro stations. It's always a historic day when new metro stations open - and it was overwhelming to see how many people turned up at Mozarts Plads to celebrate the occasion with us. The Metroselskabet's focus is on attracting as many passengers as possible and ensuring that the Metro is an integral part of everyday life in the capital,’ says Chairman of the Board Jørn Neergaard Larsen.

At the meeting, the board also received an update on Metroselskabet's work on storm surge protection. The Metro must be climate-proofed against flooding from extreme rain and storm surges, which can affect both the Metro's infrastructure and the operation of the Metro. The Company is therefore working to assess the consequences of the calculated water levels. At the meeting, the Board was given an update on the feasibility study for a joint storm surge protection programme for Copenhagen, including Metroselskabet's active participation in the preparation of a model for how the necessary facilities and their operation can be financed.

The Metro's passenger numbers in May totalled 10.3 million passengers. Year-to-month, the realised passenger number is 49.5 million passengers, which is 10% below expectations. Especially the realised passenger numbers for M3/M4 are below expectations, while M1/M2 is close to expectations. One of the main reasons for this is the planned closures of M3/M4 in connection with test runs on M4 prior to the opening. It is assessed that this effect has been temporary.

Finally, the Board was briefed on the Metro's operational stability. In May, the operational stability on M1/M2 was 99.3 per cent, while for M3/M4 it was 97.2 per cent. The low operational stability on M3/M4 is primarily due to complications in connection with the South Harbour project.

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News from the Board of Directors, 31 May 2024 

On 22 June, the M4 extension to Sydhavn and Valby will open, and at the meeting, the Board received an update on the inauguration and the activities planned in connection with the opening. The official opening programme includes a public celebration at Mozarts Plads in the form of a street party with food stalls, live music, a flea market and entertainment, where representatives from the owners are expected to participate. At 12.30 pm, HM the King will cut the ribbon and declare the five new metro stations open for passengers.

‘It is a great pleasure to be able to welcome passengers at five new metro stations and provide an easier, faster and sustainable journey around the capital. The M4 extension connects the metro system to the Copenhagen Syd transport hub, which will eventually become one of Denmark's largest. The Metroselskabet's focus is on attracting as many passengers as possible from day one and ensuring that the Metro remains an integral part of everyday life in the capital,’ says Chairman of the Board Jørn Neergaard Larsen.

The board was also given an update on the completion of the station sites, most of which are expected to be ready for the opening on 22 June. However, some work will still be carried out after the opening, such as at København Syd, where the area around the roundabout towards the Køge Bugt railway will not yet be completed.

At the meeting, the Board approved the annual portfolio plan under Metroselskabet's strategy for investments in fixed assets for the Metro in operation. The focus here is primarily on the reinvestment projects that ensure that Metro's technical facilities are maintained in a timely manner while maintaining a high level of operations. The portfolio plan also includes the Investment Programme, which consists of capacity improvement projects on M1/M2.

Finally, the Board was briefed on Metro's passenger numbers and operational stability. In April, the operational stability on M1/M2 was 97.8 per cent compared to 98.9 per cent in March. The low operational stability is primarily caused by an incident at Vanløse on 15 April, where a prolonged technical fault occurred. Operational stability for M3/M4 was 98.7 per cent in April compared to 99.0 per cent in March. The primary cause is considered to be the prolonged power outage on 22 April. Metroselskabet, in collaboration with the operator, is investigating the incidents that affect operational stability, and there is a general increased focus on both incidents and outages.

Metro's passenger numbers in April were 10.4 million passengers, which is 6 per cent below the passenger budget for the month. Year-to-month, the realised passenger number is 39.1 million passengers, which is 10% below the current year-to-month passenger budget. It is estimated that a large part of the shortfall is due to temporary effects of the M3/M4 closure in February 2024, which was a precondition for the M4 extension to open as planned.

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News from the Board of Directors, 22 March 2024

This summer, Metroselskabet will open the M4 extension to Sydhavn and Valby. At the meeting, the Board was given a status update on the project and the work to plan the opening, where the opening activities include a public celebration at Mozarts Plads. The project is in an important phase where the finalisation of architectural work and testing of subsystems takes up a lot of time - including work on the common transfer area at København Syd, safety documentation and the completion of station plazas. 

The art at each of the five stations on the M4 Sydhavn is being finalised. The integrated works have been created by five different Danish artists and have been created for the specific stations with financial and expertise support from the Danish Arts Foundation, as well as funding from the Villum Foundation and the Obel Family Foundation. 

‘Work on the metro extension to Sydhavn and Valby began five and a half years ago, and the Board is pleased to note that The Company has followed the plan that was laid out and can therefore open this summer. The Company looks forward to welcoming our passengers soon at five stations, which, among other things, will create new connections between the capital's neighbourhoods and the rest of the country through good transfer options between regional, national and international bus and train services,’ says Chairman Jørn Neergaard Larsen. 

At the meeting, the board was presented with the latest figures for the Metro, which in February had 8.1 million passengers and continues to experience growth in passenger numbers.   

The Board was also given an update on the København Syd urban development project, where Metroselskabet is tasked with preparing a masterplan and subsequently developing areas at København Syd in Valby. In 2023, The Company conducted a masterplan competition for the urban development, which has since been further refined.  

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News from the Board of Directors on 29 February 2024

At the meeting, the Board received an update on the M4 extension to København Syd, which will open in summer 2024. The project is in a phase where the finalisation of architectural work and testing of trains and control systems is a major focus. The test results are an important part of the documentation that forms the basis for the safety authorisations. 

In weeks 7 and 8 2024, the M3 line was closed so that integration tests could be carried out between the M3 and M4 lines. During the closure period, The Company had deployed metro buses along the M3 and M4 in both directions. The Company's overall view of the closure was that customers were generally able to navigate the alternative operation.

At the meeting, the board received a status report on the work on a joint storm surge protection programme for Copenhagen. This is work that Metroselskabet is contributing to together with other infrastructure owners, ministries and other authorities. On 21 February 2024, the Danish Coastal Authority published the first interim report of a feasibility study with new calculations for water rise during a storm surge.

‘The Metro has a generally high level of protection, and The Company focuses on continuously analysing the level of protection and retrofitting exposed stations as experts and authorities update their storm surge assessments. The Company will now compare the authorities‘ storm surge analyses with previous calculations from advisors to clarify whether there are any changes in terms of which parts of the metro system will be exposed to storm surges,’ says Chairman of the Board Jørn Neergaard Larsen.

At the meeting, the Board of Directors approved that the Company's management documents are in accordance with corporate governance recommendations. The Company's financial statements for 2023 were also reviewed and the Board of Directors approved the 2023 annual report and recommends it for approval at the Company's partnership meeting in April 2024.

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News from the Board of Directors, 15 December 2023

At the meeting, the Board was informed that the Metro had 11.2 million passengers in November, which is a record. Overall, a total of 110 million passengers have travelled with the Metro in the first 11 months of the year, exceeding the total for the whole of last year, which was 108 million passengers.

‘The development in passenger numbers shows that more and more people are choosing to take the Metro. In the second half of 2023, there have so far been three weekly records and one monthly record. In addition, one month before the end of the year, the Metro had more travellers than in the whole of 2022, which was the best year so far. In parallel with the positive passenger development, two extra trains have been deployed on the M1/M2, and together with the deployment of another train in 2024, this will increase the capacity of the Metro by ten per cent, alleviating rush hour congestion and supporting a continued good passenger experience. The Company is focused on securing even more passengers in the Metro, especially in M3/M4, and expects the positive development in passenger numbers to continue into 2024, when the M4 extension to København Syd opens,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Board of the Metroselskabet.

In November, Metro's operational stability was 98.7 per cent overall for all lines. The operational stability for the month is lower than in previous months, primarily due to the incident on M1/M2 on 16 November. Heavy rain, combined with simultaneous operation and maintenance work in the shaft at Havnegade on the line, resulted in water in the tunnel. Operations were therefore suspended between Nørreport and Christianshavn for much of the day.

The Company was presented with plans to integrate the company's sustainability as part of the annual report for 2023. The purpose is to reflect that the financial and sustainability aspects are treated equally. This also means that the report will comply with the EU's upcoming Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), which for Metroselskabet will enter into force from the 2025 financial year. The Company was also presented with the materiality analysis for the company's sustainability, which will be included in the report.

The Board received an update on the working environment for the M4 Sydhavn project. The Company, together with the contractor TUNN3L, has introduced the Finish Safely campaign, which is based on the experience from the M3 line, where the Company, in collaboration with the contractors, succeeded in reducing the number of accidents despite short deadlines and changing staffing on the project. The project's accident rate in the first 10 months of 2023 is 4.7 (number of lost-time accidents per million working hours), which is significantly below the average for Danish construction sites.

At the meeting, The Company's Board of Directors also approved the company's budget for 2024 and the long-term budget, which follows the plan with an unchanged repayment period, so the company's debt is still expected to be paid off in 2066.

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News from the Board of Directors, 24 November 2023

At the meeting, the Board received an update on operations. Metro has experienced growth in passenger numbers, and in the first 10 months of the year, there have been 14 per cent more journeys in Metro than in the same period last year. The Company has estimated 122 million journeys in 2023, compared to 108 million journeys in 2022. Operational stability in the same period was 99.4 per cent for the lines as a whole.

The Company's work on climate protection against flooding, which can affect the Metro's infrastructure and operations, was also presented to the Board. The Metro has a generally high level of protection so that the Metro can withstand so-called 2000-year events for 100 years from commissioning. However, climate change means that expectations for extreme rain and storm surges have changed in recent years. 

Climate protection is a high priority for Metroselskabet, which is participating in a preliminary study of a joint storm surge plan for Copenhagen coordinated by the Ministry of Transport.

‘Climate change has a major impact on the Metro's level of security. However, the global changes mean that it does not only make sense to focus on the Metro in isolation. The Metro is part of the capital, and climate-proofing Copenhagen is also climate-proofing the Metro. The Company therefore actively contributes to the work of flood-proofing Copenhagen together with other infrastructure owners, ministries and other authorities. The Company also focuses on continuously analysing the level of protection and retrofitting vulnerable stations as experts and authorities update their assessments for extreme rain and storm surges,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Board of The Company.

Metroselskabet is preparing the M4 extension to København Syd for opening in 2024. The project is entering the final important phase of finalising architectural work and testing trains and control systems.

At the meeting, The Company was also presented with the results of the market dialogue that the company has conducted in connection with the tender for new operations and maintenance services. tender for a new operation and maintenance contract. The current operation and maintenance contracts expire in 2027.

In addition, the Board was informed that Metroselskabet, together with 13 other public sector clients, had signed an agreement at the Green Gear Shift conference to require contractors to use emission-free machinery in the future.

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News from the board meeting, 27 October 2023

At the meeting, the board was informed that since September, the capacity on M1/M2 has been increased by an extra train, bringing the total number of trains on the lines to 32. During November and the first quarter of 2024, two more trains will be added, bringing the total number of trains deployed to 34. Overall, the additional trains are expected to increase the M1/M2's capacity by ten per cent. The increased capacity will help alleviate the congestion that passengers currently experience during rush hour and accommodate the growth in passenger numbers.

After 20 years in operation, the M1/M2 is beginning to have a greater need for investment, and the board approved the initiation of new prioritised reinvestment projects. Sustainability has been introduced as a parameter in the analyses and a number of already decided investments are expected to contribute to CO2 reduction - including replacement of cooling and ventilation, energy optimisation of district heating at the Control and Maintenance Center and replacement of lighting sources with LED.

The board was also informed about an investment project to upgrade the transfer area at Frederiksberg Station by better connecting the two metro systems via a level change underground.
At the meeting, the board decided to purchase a new maintenance system that provides the basis for better management and follow-up of Metroselskabet's total assets. This ensures that upgrades and replacements of equipment and technical solutions are not just done on a one-to-one basis, but with the best and most sustainable solution at the time.

‘With our decision in October last year to strengthen Metroselskabet's work with reinvestments and the establishment of an independent unit in the organisation for this purpose, we have already come a long way in terms of having the right resources to avoid bottlenecks in the upcoming reinvestments, so that customers will continue to experience a high-quality journey and high operational stability,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Metroselskabet Board.

In 2024, the extension of the M4 metro line towards Sydhavn and Valby will open. At the meeting, the board was presented with the layout of the area around Ny Ellebjerg Station, which will change its name to København Syd in 2024. The opening date of the new line will be announced three months before the expected opening. However, The Company expects to be able to announce the expected opening in January 2024. 

In addition, the board received a status on customer satisfaction from the third quarter of 2023, where efforts have been made over the past year to improve satisfaction with e.g. traffic information and cleaning in trains. The initiatives have proven to have a positive effect on satisfaction.

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News from the board meeting, 25 August 2023

At the meeting, the Board of Directors approved the Company's interim financial statements for the first half of 2023. The Company reported that 59.5 million passengers travelled on the Metro during the period, which is an increase of 15 percent compared to the same period last year. The Company had expected an increase of 20 per cent, but passenger numbers for M3/M4 were below expectations for the first half of 2023. The Board of Directors took note that the total passenger numbers for the full year 2023 are estimated at 122 million passengers in the interim financial statements for the first half of 2023. In comparison, The Company realised a passenger number of 108 million in 2022.

‘Since the opening of the M3 line, total passenger numbers in the Metro have almost doubled from 65 million annual passengers in 2018 to an expected 122 million annual passengers in 2023. The long-term budget assumes a growth in passenger numbers based on a 5-year recovery of the M3 line in the period after COVID-19. However, the speed and steepness of the increase in passenger numbers is uncertain in the short term. Metroselskabet expects to reach the full passenger potential of the Metro of 180 million annual passengers in 2028,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Board of Metroselskabet.

In 2024, the extension of the M4 to København Syd (Ny Ellebjerg today) will open with five new stations, and the board received a status report on the construction work. Prior to the opening, a number of testing and safety activities will be carried out to upgrade the control system, which will affect M3 and M4, including periodic closures. The Board was informed that The Company is currently working to clarify the period for testing and safety activities, which will be optimised to affect as few passengers as possible and take into account other critical maintenance work and major events in the city.

The Board was also given an update on the operation of the Metro, which in July ran with a punctuality of 99.5 per cent. The Company also informed the Board that the Company has entered into an agreement with the operator to put more trains in operation during rush hour on the M1/M2 from autumn 2023. More trains in operation means that customers in the coming winter season will experience increased capacity in the Metro and shorter time between departures.

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News from the board meeting on 22 June 2023

At the meeting, the board was briefed on Metro's passenger numbers and operational stability. In May, the Metro had a passenger number of 10.1 million passengers, which is approximately 1 million more than in May 2022. Year to month, the Metro has had approximately 20 per cent more passengers than in the corresponding period in 2022. Year to month, passenger numbers are approximately 4 per cent below expectations. There may be several reasons why passenger numbers are below budget in May, including the fact that it was a very dry month compared to previous years. In May, operational stability was 99.7 per cent overall and 99.6 per cent during peak hours, which is very satisfactory.

The Board of Directors approved the company's commercial strategy to support the company's growth targets for passenger numbers and revenue in the business strategy period 2023-2026. The Company's Board of Directors has previously decided that the company will launch commercial initiatives in areas such as ticketing solutions, pricing, sales channels and partnerships to offer customers a quality experience and support the company's growth target of 176 million passengers by 2026.

‘The Metro must continue to be the most sought-after sustainable mobility option in the capital - and already in 2023 we have a target of 130 million passengers, which is an increase of around 22 million compared to last year. Therefore, we need to focus not only on ensuring a good passenger experience when it comes to the core product in terms of frequency, speed and operational stability, but also in terms of the overall customer experience, including associated services, pricing, communication etc. Passenger growth must come from both the expansion of the Metro and new customers, but also existing customers who are expected to travel more with the Metro in the future. This will be achieved by them using the Metro in more contexts combined with them staying longer as customers through targeted efforts to increase their knowledge and loyalty,’ says Jørn Neergaard, Chairman of the Metroselskabet Board of Directors. 

The Board also received an update on the work with dust particles in the Metro. Since the Board was informed about the matter in February 2023, The Company has prepared a measurement programme for measuring particles in the Metro for customers and received preliminary measurement results from the operator Metro Service regarding the working environment. All measurements are below the Danish Working Environment Authority's limit values, and the measured concentration levels do not give rise to an unacceptable impact on the working environment.

The Company has also increased cleaning at stations and tunnels to remove particles in the Metro. In addition, the possibility of developing an improved filter for the trains and increased tunnel ventilation on M1/M2 and M3/M4 is being investigated. Common to all initiatives is that they are based on international experience. An expert group consisting of 12 national experts in environment and health is monitoring The Company's improvement measures and the Company's measurement programme for particle concentration on Metro platforms.

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News from the board meeting on 26 May 2023

At the meeting, the Board of Directors approved Metroselskabet's investment activities for the Metro in operation and the focus areas for the work over the next four years. Since 2017, The Company has worked strategically and purposefully with investments in the Metro in operation, including in particular capacity expansions and reinvestments in general. The programme will run until 2035, and the Board of Directors is given an annual status report on the initiatives launched.

‘One of our most important tasks is to ensure that the Metro continues to meet customer needs in the future. Therefore, maintenance of and investments in the Metro in operation are crucial to ensure that we can maintain the high customer satisfaction and operational stability that is a prerequisite for meeting capacity needs and the Company's target of 126 million passengers annually by 2023. The Company is working, among other things. The company is working to increase capacity in M1/M2 by a total of 35 per cent by gradually increasing the number of trains during rush hour from the turn of 2023/2024 and gradually up to the maximum level over the coming years,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Metroselskabet Board of Directors.    

It was also decided to reduce the climate impact of The Company's reinvestments.

At the meeting, the board was also informed that the winner of the competition for a proposal for a master plan for urban development at København Syd is expected to be appointed by mid-July 2023. The board also approved the allocation of the necessary funds for consultancy in connection with the master plan, initial report and local plan, which the winning team will be responsible for further developing and finalising.

København Syd will be one of Denmark's largest stations and the capital's new traffic hub with both Metro and S-train lines as well as national, regional and eventually international train connections. As part of the development of København Syd, Metroselskabet has been tasked with developing the area on the northern side of the railway line with opportunities for housing, businesses, shops and other urban life functions.

At the meeting, the board was also briefed on Metro's passenger numbers and operational stability. In April, Metro's passenger numbers totalled 9.8 million passengers, which is on target for the month. In the period 1 January to 30 April 2023, 39.8 million people travelled on the Metro, which is about 3.5% below expectations. In April, operational stability was 99.6 per cent overall and 99.6 per cent during peak hours, which is very satisfactory.

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News from the board meeting on 31 March 2023

At the meeting, the board received an update on the construction of M4 Sydhavn. The work continues to be affected by the general lack of resources and deliveries of equipment and materials, which is why The Company is in close dialogue with the contractors to continuously optimise and prioritise the work. Despite these challenges, it is expected that the new Copenhagen Sydhavn metro line will be connected to the metro network with five stations as planned in 2024.

At the meeting, the Metroselskabet board also approved the new commercial strategy, which supports the business strategy for 2023-2026 and will help realise the planned passenger growth during the strategy period and the work to get more customers to use the Metro.

‘We have a big task ahead of us in terms of getting more passengers to choose the Metro in the coming years. The Metro must continue to be the most sought-after sustainable mobility option in the capital. New customers will be attracted through targeted efforts to increase their awareness of the opportunities that the Metro offers in terms of efficient and reliable transport in the capital. The Company works with targeted initiatives, offers and services to relevant target groups at the right times. This is done through campaigns at the start of studies, change of residence, etc. The Company is also working to increase the number of passengers by, among other things, getting existing customers to travel more with the Metro in the future,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Board of The Company.

At the meeting, the board was also briefed on Metro's passenger numbers and operational stability. In February, the Metro had a passenger number of 9.4 million passengers, which is about 2.5 per cent below the current passenger budget for the month and about 20 per cent above the figure for February 2022. In February, the overall operational stability was 99.5 per cent and 99.1 per cent during rush hour, which is very satisfactory.

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News from the board meeting on 24 February 2023

At the meeting, the Metroselskabet's Board of Directors approved the annual report for 2022. The report shows that 17 million more passengers than expected travelled through the Metro in 2022, resulting in a total passenger number of 108 million. This also means that the financial result for the year is better than expected. Before depreciation and amortisation, the result was DKK 41 million, which is DKK 220 million better than expected in the 2022 budget.

‘It's very satisfying to see the growth in passenger numbers in the Metro. It shows that we are doing our job responsibly and delivering the green, public transport to the citizens of the capital that we were created for. At the same time, we have our eyes firmly set on the future, where Metroselskabet will continue to be the most sought-after sustainable mobility option in the capital. That's why we have adopted a new business strategy with the ambition to deliver the greatest possible social value with the smallest possible climate footprint,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of Metroselskabet's Board of Directors. 

The Board also approved the Company's sustainability report for 2022. Both the annual report and the sustainability report must then be approved by the Metroselskabet's owners at the upcoming partnership meeting.

The Board also received an update on The Company's work to investigate opportunities and initiatives based on the air measurements taken in the Metro by researchers at Aarhus and Copenhagen Universities. As the board was previously informed, the measurements have shown a high concentration of fine particles (PM2.5) at stations and in trains - especially on lines M3 and M4.

Metroselskabet wants to learn more about the situation by supporting the external dialogue with the researchers. The Company is also working with the operator on a number of initiatives to help reduce the amount of particles. These include washing stations and tunnels, increased ventilation, possible installation of filters and measurements of air quality in the Metro.

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News from the board meeting on 16 December 2022

At the meeting, the board decided on a scenario for the procurement and implementation of a new driverless control system on M1/M2. The replacement of the control system is planned and is part of Metroselskabet's Investment Programme and will ensure continued safe and stable operation so that the system can continue to deliver an adequate level of service in the future. At the same time, the acquisition costs are kept at the lowest possible level.

‘The Metro is popular and more and more passengers are choosing to travel with us. This means that the number of journeys in the M1/M2 will continue to increase - both in the short and long term. A new operating system is expected to ensure continued stable operations for the benefit of the more than 100 million passengers travelling on the Metro every year. ‘It is still our most important core task to ensure that the trains run on time around the clock so that passengers have an easy and efficient travelling experience of high quality. The new control system will help ensure this,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Metroselskabet Board of Directors.

At the meeting, the board was also briefed on the Metro's passenger numbers and operational stability. The Metro is currently on track to reach 100 million passengers in 2022, which is the highest annual passenger numbers ever. In November, operational stability was 99.3 per cent, which is very satisfactory - also during rush hour, when 99.1 per cent of departures were on time.

Finally, the Board received a status report on the work with Metroselskabet's digitalisation programme, where the strategy for the projects is to ensure optimal IT and digitalisation support for the company's current and future business needs. The goals are ambitious and will help establish a basic digital foundation for The Company. In 2022, good progress has been made on virtually all projects with a focus on testing and implementing the new systems.

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News from the board meeting on 25 November 2022

At the meeting, the Board of Directors approved the tendering process to extend the life of the first generation of trains on M1/M2 by 10 years until 2035. This is part of Metroselskabet's investment programme, which aims to increase the capacity of the Metro by 35% by 2035.

The board has previously decided to extend the lifetime of the 34 trains rather than replacing them with new ones. The decision included an assessment of the trains' condition and expected technical life expectancy at the time. In addition, replacing the trains would cause significantly more inconvenience to customers as it would require longer periods of closures and reduced service.

‘The decision to extend the service life also emphasises the Metroselskabet's ongoing focus on sustainability. Instead of buying new trains and scrapping the existing ones, we get the opportunity to recycle and thus reduce the carbon footprint, which is a benefit in itself. At the same time, we are changing the seating layout to increase the capacity of the trains with room for more passengers and a faster exchange of passengers in and out of the trains,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Metroselskabet Board of Directors.

The task of extending the lifetime of the M1/M2 trains has been put out to tender, and the winner among a total of five qualified bidders will soon be announced and a contract signed.

At the meeting, the Board was also briefed on Metro's passenger numbers and operational stability. In October, 9.7 million passengers travelled on the Metro, which is 0.3 million above the passenger budget for the month. The Board follows the development in passenger numbers and continues to focus on getting more passengers travelling on the Metro. Operational stability in October was very satisfactory with an overall operational stability of 99.5 per cent. All lines were generally very stable - also during rush hour, when Metro's overall operational stability was 99.3 per cent.

Finally, the Board also received an update on the M4 Sydhavn construction project. Despite challenges in relation to global supply chains, the project is progressing well, and The Company believes that the overall economy and construction budget are essentially on schedule. However, the project is still under pressure due to the general lack of resources and deliveries of equipment and materials. The Company is therefore working closely with the contractor to ensure continued progress despite the ongoing challenges.

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News from the board meeting on 28 October 2022

At the meeting, the Board approved Metroselskabet's business strategy for 2023-2026. The business strategy is an important management tool for the Board in terms of realising ambitions and setting the framework for how The Company works during the strategy period. The strategy is now finalised and submitted to the owners for approval.

The business strategy consists of four closely linked tracks that together enable The Company to fulfil its promise to ensure a Metro that delivers the greatest possible social value with the smallest possible climate footprint. The four tracks contain initiatives in the areas of Customers, Climate footprint, Client role and Safety. As a foundation for achieving the strategy, the business strategy also includes a focus on developing the organisation and the necessary competencies in The Company.

‘During the strategy period, it is Metroselskabet's ambition to deliver a Metro that delivers the greatest possible social value with the smallest possible climate footprint. This means that the position must be strengthened and expanded so that the Metro continues to be the most sought-after sustainable mobility option in the capital,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Board of Metroselskabet.

At the meeting, the board was also briefed on Metro's passenger numbers and operational stability. In September, 9.8 million passengers travelled with the Metro, corresponding to the current passenger budget for the month. At the same time, operational stability in September was very satisfactory, and the service was generally very stable - also during rush hour. Operational stability in September was 99.7 per cent.

The Board was also informed that Metroselskabet is focusing on being able to respond in the best possible way to the current energy situation and any shortages of power supply. The Company's goal is to maintain operations and service to customers as far as possible.

The Board of Directors is concerned that the Metro - after 20 years - continues to run smoothly and that customers have a good experience on the journey. To ensure this, the Board approved the initiation of new prioritised projects for maintenance in the Metro in operation. This is part of the 4-year rolling budget for new investments, which is always decided at the board meeting in October. Among other things, the budget includes initiatives to meet an expected, increasing reinvestment need related to the 20-year plant on lines M1 and M2, improvement activities related to the new lines M3 and M4, and a generally strengthened focus on reducing CO2 emissions - e.g. through energy optimisation.

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News from the board meeting on 26 August 2022

At the meeting, the Board was informed that passengers are increasingly opting for the Metro. In July, the Metro had a passenger number of 7.8 million passengers, which is 26 per cent above the current passenger budget. At the same time, the operational stability in July has been very satisfactory, and the service has generally been very stable. The overall operational stability on M1/M2 was 99.5 per cent, while it was 99.2 per cent on M3/M4.

During the summer, the Metro was also challenged in several areas, including the historic Tour de France in Copenhagen, which set a new passenger record with almost 570,000 passengers in the entire Metro system. That's more passengers than ever in a single day. With the closure of large parts of Copenhagen city centre, the Metro proved to be an attractive transport option in the festive capital.

During the shooting in Fields on 3 July, both the system and the emergency response worked as planned. For example, the many concertgoers in the Royal Arena were evacuated by Metro in close cooperation with the police and emergency services. Finally, the system's capacity was thoroughly tested in connection with the Ed Sheeran concerts at Femøren station at the beginning of August, where we worked hard to ensure as good a passenger flow as possible despite the extraordinarily large number of people in the Metro.

The Board also discussed the status of Metroselskabet's work environment efforts. Since 2018, The Company has worked ambitiously with safety and the working environment - and since the last report in August 2021, there has been a significant decrease in the number of lost-time accidents on M4 Sydhavn. From August 2020 to July 2021, there were 14 lost-time accidents, while up to July 2022 there have been 4 lost-time accidents.

‘We still have a clear ambition that no one on our projects gets hurt. This places extremely high demands on both us as the client and the contractors. The work on safety and the working environment therefore requires a constant and sustained effort - not least because of the enormous size and complexity of the metro projects,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Metroselskabet Board of Directors.

As part of the Metroselskabet's occupational health and safety efforts, 34 courses have been held from summer 2021, where 320 employees of the contractors on M4 Sydhavn have participated. The proportion of employees on the project who have completed the course has thus increased from approximately 54 per cent in July last year to almost 69 per cent in August 2022.

Finally, the Board was briefed on the competition strategy for a masterplan at København Syd (Ny Ellebjerg). The competition includes proposals for a masterplan for København Syd (Ny Ellebjerg), which is expected to include a vision, a proposal for future development and solutions for how the project can support important themes such as sustainability, safety and good urban life, including that København Syd can become Denmark's third-largest station and thus a new traffic hub. The competition will be relatively short to allow the project to be developed in a timely manner, and a winning team is expected to be selected in June 2023.

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News from the board meeting on 23 June 2022

At the meeting, the Board was informed that the threat level from cybercrime in Denmark remains high and that the authorities therefore encourage all companies to focus on this at all management levels. The Board of Directors was presented with a status of the Company's work to ensure an appropriate level of security, including how the Company will provide the Board of Directors with an annual status of the ongoing adjustments to the security level that are necessary.

At the meeting, the Board was also informed that customers still seem to be returning to the Metro and using the new Metro lines slightly faster than previously expected. In May, the Metro carried 9.2 million passengers, which is equivalent to more than 300,000 passengers on a normal weekday. At the same time, the operational stability in May has been very satisfactory and the metro has generally been very stable. The overall operational stability on M1/M2 was 99.5 per cent, while it was 99.7 per cent on M3/M4.

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From the board meeting on 31 May 2022

At the meeting, Metroselskabet's Board of Directors approved the appointment of a new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). It will be Carsten Riis, who comes from a position as municipal director in Faxe Municipality and will start on 1 August 2022.

‘With Carsten Riis, we get a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) with a strong profile and many years of experience in top management. He has solid insight into important areas such as the development of the capital, digitalisation and finance and is used to working in large organisations with many different stakeholders and partners. I look forward to working with Carsten Riis, and I'm confident that with him at the helm, we will have a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) who can lead, drive and develop the important projects that the organisation is responsible for,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Board of Metroselskabet.

At the meeting, The Company's board received an update on the company's contribution to the owners' analyses of a possible new metro line, M5, which examines both a line in the western part of central Copenhagen and a south-eastern line. The purpose of the analysis is, among other things, to ensure a sustainable public transport service for new urban areas and ensure more metro capacity across the harbour. It is expected that the EIA process for a future Metro with an idea phase consultation can be initiated after the summer. Metroselskabet is working with the owners to organise a good process for citizen involvement in the upcoming EIA.

The board was also informed that both new and old customers seem to be returning to the Metro a little faster than previously expected after COVID and taking the new expanded Metro system into use. In April, the Metro had a passenger number of 9.0 million passengers, which is above the passenger budget for the month. Metro passengers also experience a very high level of operational stability, which in April was 99.2 per cent for lines M1/M2 and 99.8 per cent for M3/M4. At the same time, the overall customer satisfaction in the Metro is 98%, which is the same level as in Q4 2021.

Finally, the Board was briefed that Metroselskabet, together with the City of Copenhagen and the City of Aalborg, has launched the initiative ‘Together for emission-free working machines’. The aim is to reduce climate impact, noise and particle pollution from construction sites, and the initiative is facilitated by the Centre for Public-Private Innovation (CO-PI). The initiative brings together public procurers to define uniform requirements for the market, making it more attractive to offer new solutions. The collaboration includes an invitation to other public and private actors to join as well.

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News from the board meeting on 25 March 2022

 CEO of Metroselskabet and The Creater Copenhagen Light Rail Henrik Plougmann Olsen will resign from his position on 30 April 2022. At the meeting, Metroselskabet's Board of Directors has appointed Rebekka Nymark as interim CEO for the period 1 May 2022 and until a new CEO takes office. In accordance with the Act on the Light Rail on Ring 3, this also means that Rebekka Nymark will act as interim CEO of The Creater Copenhagen Light Rail during the period. In continuation of the above, it has also been decided that Hanne Tærsbøl Schmidt, Head of Neighbours and Properties/Executive Secretariat, will act as interim CEO in Rebekka Nymark's position for the corresponding period.

‘On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to thank Rebekka for taking on this important task. She has in-depth knowledge of the organisation and the business from her 12 years with The Company. We are convinced that she, together with management and employees, will continue the good operation of The Company during the period until the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is found and takes office,’ says Chairman of the Board Jørn Neergaard Larsen.

At the meeting, the Board received a status report on the work on the company's digitalisation programme. The programme includes a number of initiatives to more effectively ensure optimal IT and digitalisation support for current and future business needs - both in terms of facilities, operations and administration. All projects are well underway, and several new IT systems have been purchased and a shared data environment for 3D modelling has been established.

At the meeting, the Board also received an introduction to the work on the upcoming business strategy 2022-2026. The overall strategy is expected to be approved by the Board in October and by the owners before the end of the year.

At the meeting, the Board also discussed the handling of the City of Copenhagen and Frederiksberg Municipality's request to stop advertising gambling in the Metro, and it was agreed to seek to incorporate the change in the upcoming operating tender.

Finally, the Company was given an update on the construction of M4 Sydhavn, where the construction contractor has now been joined by the Rhomberg/Efacec and Hitachi Rail consortium, who are in the start-up phase of their work on track laying, power and traction current and technical equipment. The Board was also informed that there are generally increasing challenges with global supply chains on the project, including steel deliveries, as Ukraine is Europe's largest supplier of both processed steel and raw materials for steel production. In addition, the Board was informed that The Company has not yet been able to identify any deliveries from Russia/oligarchs that are subject to sanctions, but that The Company continues to monitor future deliveries.

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News from the board meeting on 25 February 2022

At the meeting, the Metroselskabet Board of Directors approved the annual report for 2021. The report shows that during the pandemic, The Company succeeded in keeping society running and providing safe transport for the Metro's approximately 200,000 daily passengers. In addition, the state compensated Metroselskabet for the consequences of the restrictions, so the result was as expected.

‘It's clear that both the lockdown and the restrictions have left their mark on our activities and results. Passenger numbers last year were 73.4 million, which is about half of what we expected. However, this is still 10 million more passengers than in 2020. We are therefore confident in terms of getting passengers back, as we continue to enjoy very high passenger satisfaction and operational stability,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Board of Metroselskabet.

The Company's Board of Directors also approved the company's CSR report for 2021, which assesses the year's efforts and fulfilment of goals within the specific focus areas. Both the annual report and the CSR report must then be approved by Metroselskabet's owners at the upcoming partnership meeting.

In the summer of 2021, the state's Infrastructure Plan 2035, which all parties in the Danish Parliament have endorsed, allocated DKK 100 million to conduct an EIA study of Metro to Lynetteholm. At the meeting, the board approved that preparatory work towards the upcoming environmental assessment be initiated. This includes project preparation of consultancy services and adaptation of the internal organisation. In connection with the EIA process, the owners have also requested a broad idea phase consultation, where citizens and stakeholders are invited to provide input on alignments and variants.

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News from the board meeting on 28 January 2022

At the first meeting of the year, Metroselskabet's Board of Directors constituted itself for a new 4-year period. The board consists of nine members, of which the City of Copenhagen and the Danish state each appoint three members, while Frederiksberg Municipality appoints one member and an alternate. In addition to the owner-elected members, the Company's employees elect two members to the Board.

Prior to the meeting, the state, the City of Copenhagen and the City of Frederiksberg had unanimously appointed Lars Weiss, former Lord Mayor and member of the Copenhagen City Council, and Michael Vindfeldt, Mayor of Frederiksberg, as vice chairmen. In addition, the City of Copenhagen appointed Helle Bonnesen as a new board member and reappointed Troels Christian Jakobsen, who has been on the board since April 2021. Metroselskabet's employees have elected Anette Alm and re-elected Kirsten Eljena Thomsen as members of the board.

To ensure a continuous transition in the work of the board, two of the state-appointed board members will be appointed no later than in connection with the partnership meeting on 31 March 2022. In April 2021, Chairman of the Board Jørn Neergaard Larsen was reappointed for another term.

‘It is gratifying that The Company's Board of Directors is now constituted with new members who are ready to take on the tasks and work to strengthen and develop the Company's interests in the next 4 years. The Board will continue to contribute to strengthening Metroselskabet's important social task of building and operating efficient, sustainable and coherent infrastructure with respect for neighbours, the environment and the city,’ says Chairman of the Board Jørn Neergaard Larsen.

At the meeting, the board also decided to appoint a recruitment committee to appoint a replacement for Metroselskabet's CEO, Henrik Plougmann Olsen. After 12 years of employment, he has chosen to change his job to CEO of HOFOR and will leave his position at the end of April 2022. If a candidate has not been found by this date, an interim CEO will be appointed to the position until a replacement is found.

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News from the board meeting on 17 December 2021

At the meeting, the Board received an update on the consequences of the new requirements from the authorities

In general, passengers have welcomed the reintroduction of the requirement and only a small number do not use face masks in public transport, which was reintroduced on 29 November 2021.

The Board was also briefed on the development of the Metro's passenger numbers. In November 2021, passenger numbers totalled 8.9 million. The Metro is still approx. 20 per cent short of the expected number of passengers after the lockdown due to COVID-19. COVID-19 LOCKDOWN.

‘Passenger numbers in the Metro are still below expectations in relation to the long-term budget, and at the end of the year, we are entering a time when restrictions and limitations are likely to continue. For our passengers, it remains crucial that they can travel safely to work and around the city on the Metro. I'm proud of our employees‘ handling of the situation and the passengers’ good behaviour. It helps us in our efforts to get customers back and restore growth,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of Metroselskabet. 

The board also approved Metroselskabet's strategy for the working environment efforts in 2022 and 2023, which is a further development of the current working environment efforts and is based on the vision of Safety on track, which was adopted in October 2017. The vision

has been implemented since January 2018 through two-year strategy periods.

‘In recent years, significant progress has been made in how safety is managed in Metroselskabet. This progress includes increased awareness among key employees, closer collaboration with contractors and strengthened competences in terms of risk management and accident prevention. This is also evident in the latest Metroselskabet safety culture survey from June 2021. Here, employees across the board responded that they either very much or very much feel that their and their colleagues‘ safety is taken seriously,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen.

Finally, the board approved Metroselskabet's selected CSR focus areas for 2022, which include working environment, safety and learning, and climate action, as well as the reporting on target fulfilment for 2021.

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News from the board meeting on 26 November 2021

At the meeting, the Board received an update on the consequences of the latest COVID-19 restrictions announced by the authorities. The new guidelines include a requirement for all public transport passengers to wear face masks from Monday 29 November.

‘We are now entering a time when restrictions and increased restrictions will once again become part of everyday life, and where they could change at short notice. As has been the case throughout the COVID-19 period, we continue to closely follow the authorities' announcements and recommendations. This places great demands on our handling of the situation and our efforts to get customers back and restore growth. For Metroselskabet, it is crucial that our passengers can rightly feel safe when travelling on the Metro’, says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of Metroselskabet. 

The board also received an update on the Metro's passenger numbers, which totalled 8.9 million in October 2021. The Metro is still missing approx. 30 per cent of its passengers after the lockdown due to COVID-19.

Finally, the Board was briefed on the work with Metroselskabet's digitalisation strategy. A special focus area across the projects has been preparing to handle a future M5 metro line in relation to GIS (Geographical Information System). During 2021, the project has digitised most of the existing management information so that it is now available in a new system. In the BIM project (3D modelling), the focus in 2021 has primarily been on maturing the organisation and spreading knowledge of 3D models.

 

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News from the board meeting on 29 October 2021

At the meeting, the board received an update on the development in Metro's passenger numbers. In September 2021, passenger numbers were 8.4 million, which means that the Metro has regained 80 per cent of its passengers after the lockdown due to COVID-19.

‘Metroselskabet is continuously monitoring how quickly and to what extent Metro's customers are coming back after COVID-19. Although there is a generally positive development, commuting in society, for example, is still lower than before COVID-19, and there are about 10 per cent fewer commuters. This naturally has an impact on passenger numbers, although it is still too early to conclude on the long-term effects of the lockdown,’ says Metroselskabet Chairman Jørn Neergaard Larsen.    

The board also approved the initiation of new reinvestment projects in 2022-2025.

A significant part of Metroselskabet's reinvestments include renovation of the existing train fleet and replacement of the driverless control system. Among other things, The Company has purchased 8 new trains that will help increase the capacity of the Metro to meet future demand for travelling by Metro. The new trains are expected to be ready for operation with passengers by the end of 2021. After that, the capacity of the system can be increased by adding extra trains during rush hour in addition to the current maximum of 31 trains.

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News from the board meeting on 27 August 2021

At the meeting, the board discussed Metroselskabet's work to reduce the nuisance from the audible trains and the development over the summer. In April 2021, The Company, with the assistance of external specialists, launched a number of initiatives that brought the vibration level down to a lower level. Since then, the situation has been closely monitored and the lower vibration level remains stable. In addition, in collaboration with the supplier and operator of the M3/M4, Hitachi Rail, three tests were carried out during the summer, where the ongoing analysis work will show whether the vibration level can be further reduced and the results of the current measures are expected to be available in September. Approximately 15,000 households are located in close proximity to the M3 line. In total, 448 households have contacted Metroselskabet regarding noise from operations since December 2019.

The Board also discussed the conclusions of the in-depth investigation launched immediately after the tragic fatal accident at the Ny Ellebjerg metro construction site on 4 May 2021. The purpose of the investigation was to clarify the underlying circumstances of the accident and to identify preventive measures for further work on M4 Sydhavn and the Company's other construction projects.

‘The tragic fatal accident has been a severe blow to Metroselskabet's work to promote a good safety culture on construction projects. However, we still have a very clear objective that no one should be injured on the projects. That is why Metroselskabet, together with the main contractor, TUNN3L, has initiated a thorough investigation led by external specialists. This work has now been completed, and based on the conclusions of the investigation, a number of measures have been implemented to strengthen safety on the construction sites and help prevent similar accidents from happening again,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Board of Metroselskabet.

The results of the study and a description of the specific measures are published on the Metroselskabet website here

The new measures - several of which have already been implemented - include organisational, technical and training measures, such as the installation of cameras on all tower cranes, an updated procedure for crane lifting, and strengthened and expanded training and education of the relevant employees.

Finally, the Board also discussed the tasks that Metroselskabet must solve in continuation of the political agreement to initiate the environmental studies on the Metro to Lynetteholm in connection with the other projects at Lynetteholm. This includes The Company's input to the strategic environmental assessment (SEA) that was decided in connection with the adoption of the Construction Act. The SEA will not only cover the construction of the island of Lynetteholm, but also the subsequent and associated projects, including the Metro to Lynetteholm and the Eastern Ring Road.

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News from the board meeting on 25 June 2021

At the meeting, the Board received an update on Metro's operations and the latest initiatives from the authorities that affect public transport. With the major reopening of society on 14 June, the face mask requirement in society was lifted - except in public transport. Here, the requirement has been relaxed so that seated passengers and passengers staying at stations and platforms are exempt from wearing face masks. According to the Ministry of Transport, the face mask requirement will be completely removed by 1 September at the latest, while the distance requirement will be lifted on 1 August 2021.

‘With the authorities' latest announcements, it will once again be possible to run full trains in the Metro after the summer holidays. At the moment, passenger numbers are around 70 per cent of normal. In August, commuters and other high-frequency passengers are expected to have to physically report to work or study again - and a commercial effort will therefore aim to win customers back to public transport and get more journeys on the Metro’, says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Metroselskabet Board of Directors. 

At the meeting, the board was also briefed on Metroselskabet's work to reduce noise pollution from the metro trains. Over the past six months, The Company has unfortunately seen an increase in the measured vibration level from the operation of the Metro, as well as an increasing number of neighbours who are bothered by noise. With external consultancy assistance, The Company now believes it has identified a significant cause of the increase in vibration levels and has launched initiatives that have brought the levels down in recent weeks.

The situation continues to be closely monitored to assess whether the lower vibration levels are stable. In addition, a number of tests and analyses are underway that may bring the level down further. During the summer, a total of three tests will be conducted on changes in rail grinding, rail inclination and rail lubrication, which will have a minor impact on night-time operations on the M3 line. The results of these tests will be analysed and presented in September.

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News from the board meeting on 28 May 2021

The board began the meeting with a minute's silence in honour of the 40-year-old man who lost his life on 4 May 2021 in connection with a crane lift at the Ny Ellebjerg metro construction site. The Metroselskabet Board of Directors expresses its deepest condolences to the deceased employee and his family. The Board was then given a review of the circumstances of the accident, which are currently clarified, as well as a briefing on the feedback from the Danish Working Environment Authority. Together with the main contractor, TUNN3L, Metroselskabet has initiated an investigation with the assistance of external specialists to identify the exact cause of the tragic accident and ensure that lessons are learnt so that similar accidents can be prevented.

There is still uncertainty about the reopening of society after COVID-19. However, The Company believes that with the current plan for vaccinations and easing of restrictions, it is likely that the Metro will be able to return to normal operations in August. At that time, commuters and other high-frequency passengers are expected to be physically present at work or study again. The board therefore approved the marketing plan for the next phase, which aims to bring customers back quickly with marketing and product initiatives and increase journeys. In addition, the Board was presented with how The Company measures the impact of the action plan's initiatives.

‘The Company faces a major task in the coming years to get customers back and restore growth. In this work, Metroselskabet must ensure that all our passengers will choose the Metro again. The primary focus area will be to get customers back so that passenger numbers can be brought in line with the passenger forecast. The changes will of course be made based on and in accordance with the authorities‘ guidelines in force at any given time,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Metroselskabet Board of Directors.

In October 2020, the board decided to initiate a market dialogue to strengthen the conditions for future metro lines to be planned and designed so that they are environmentally and socially sustainable. At the meeting, the Board received a status report on analyses of new lines and a briefing on the work with the market dialogue, in which Metroselskabet has, among other things, investigated opportunities to use other methods and exploit new technology. Among other things, a series of meetings have been held with both Danish and international companies that are considered to be leaders in sustainable project development and construction.

Finally, the Board was briefed on Metroselskabet's work to reduce the nuisance caused by the audible trains. Over the past six months, The Company has unfortunately noticed an increase in the measured vibration level from the operation of the Metro, as well as an increasing number of neighbours who are bothered by noise. Therefore, external consultancy has now been hired to analyse the causes of the increases. This analysis work is expected to be finalised this summer.

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News from the board meeting on 26 March 2021

At the meeting, the Board received a presentation on how Metroselskabet will work to get customers back after the reopening of the community. The board decided on an effort to ensure that customers will be able to return to the Metro - quickly and safely - in a way that fits with the reopening of the community and the customers' needs.

‘It is gratifying that we are now in a situation where the capital is reopening and everyday life is slowly returning. We have a very crucial task to ensure that Metro's customers return again. Among other things, we have a special task to ensure that customers feel safe travelling in the Metro, so they choose the Metro as a fast and sustainable form of transport in everyday life,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Board of Metroselskabet.

At the meeting, the board was also given an overview of how the COVID-19 situation affects the Metro's operations. The gradual opening of society can also be felt in the Metro, where there is an increase in passenger numbers. As there are still restrictions on how many people can travel on the Metro, it is not without its challenges. Especially during rush hour at Lergravsparken, Amagerbro Station, Kongens Nytorv, Nørreport and Christianshavn, queues can form before customers can get on the Metro. Extra staff and close daily follow-up will ensure that the situation is handled in a controlled and safe manner.

In addition, the board was briefed on the progress at Sydhavn, which has also been challenged by a number of extra requirements and restrictions due to COVID-19, including quarantine rules and frequent tests. Despite the extra challenges this presents in the planning and execution of daily work, we have managed to keep construction on track, but there is a risk that there will be additional costs associated with this. The project is approaching a crucial milestone with the tunnelling completed. One of the tunnel boring machines is complete, so there is now a connection between M4 Sydhavn and the M3 line. The tunnelling work is expected to be completed in both tunnels by the end of April.

***   

News from the board meeting on 18 December 2020

At the meeting, the Board approved the overall framework for the Metroselskabet's 2021 budget. In relation to COVID-19, The Company has budgeted on the basis that it will not be possible to disregard direct consequences of the ongoing pandemic until the end of 2021. Due to this uncertainty, The Company has therefore chosen to exclude new initiatives in the draft budget, and ongoing adjustments to the budget must also be expected.

The Board also discussed the draft of Metroselskabet's CSR report for 2020 and approved the two overall focus areas for 2021: Safety on track (previously occupational health and safety) and Sustainable operations and facilities (previously the green area).

‘The focus areas are a further development of last year's objectives, which is in line with the UN Global Compact, which recommends that The Company selects a few focus areas annually to focus its CSR efforts. Among other things, this ensures important continuity in the follow-up work on the decisions made by the board in relation to the working environment strategy and the strategy for the company's green development team,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of The Company's Board of Directors.

The board was also briefed on Metroselskabet's work to reduce noise nuisance from metro trains. The Expropriation Commission is currently processing a number of test cases to determine whether the noise nuisance exceeds the so-called neighbourhood tolerance limit. Metroselskabet has entered into dialogue with a group of citizens who experience noise from trains on the M3 M3 line. The Company also continues to focus on working to reduce the perceived nuisance, including in relation to maintenance of rails and trains.

Finally, The Company's communication strategy for the period 2018-2022 was presented to the Board of Directors.

 

Note: After the board meeting, the Expropriation Commission published its decision in the cases and found that in none of the test cases is it the case that the noise nuisance exceeds the so-called neighbourhood tolerance limit. The Metroselskabet is therefore not ordered to take over homes or provide compensation in any of the cases.

***

News from the board meeting on 27 November 2020

At the meeting, the Board of Directors discussed the overall framework for Metroselskabet's 2021 budget for second reading at the Board meeting in December 2020. The Company has chosen to omit new initiatives in the proposed budget due to the uncertainty associated with the current situation with COVID-19. The budget is therefore based on the assumption that direct consequences of COVID-19 cannot be ignored until the end of 2021. Due to the uncertainty associated with the ongoing pandemic, subsequent adjustments to the budget must therefore be expected.

The Metro must also continue to be operated with a focus on the limitations this entails and with great attention to customer safety and security. Customers are still encouraged to keep their distance, remember to wear a face mask and otherwise comply with the authorities' requirements and recommendations. In addition, customers are encouraged to travel outside rush hour if they can. Passenger numbers in the Metro are still significantly below normal for the time of year.

The Board also received a follow-up briefing that a significant number of improvements, tests and updates are currently being carried out on M1-M4, which unfortunately have a negative impact on operations and create inconvenience for customers. In weeks 47 and 49, there were several days when the entire M3 line and M4 Nordhavn were shut down in the evening and at night. Metro buses were deployed and Metroselskabet provided information to customers on an ongoing basis in order to create an understanding of the inconvenience they may experience.

‘The problems that have arisen in connection with the necessary improvement and maintenance work in the Metro have been handled according to plan and with a strong focus on creating the least possible inconvenience for passengers. The rails have now been sanded on the M3 line and mobile coverage has been ensured on the stretch from Orientkaj to Marmorkirken. In the coming period, efforts will be made to roll out mobile coverage on the entire M3 line,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Metroselskabet Board of Directors.

A few more tests of the new M1/M2 trains remain to be carried out before the end of the year. Here, we have succeeded in shortening the period during the days when the test takes place so that it only starts at midnight - instead of at 8.00 pm, as originally planned. This will limit the impact on customers.

***

News from the board meeting on 30 October 2020

At the meeting, the board received a status report on the testing of the 8 new trains that have been purchased for the M1/M2 metro lines. The trains, which will ensure greater capacity and space for everyone in the Metro, have been tested on part of the line in recent weeks. The tests have affected operations and thus the service to customers, who have been provided with information on how to plan their journey and, as far as possible, understand any inconvenience they may experience. From February 2021, there will again be tests that affect operations. These will run until June 2021.

‘At Metroselskabet, we are constantly working to optimise the capacity of the Metro to ensure a good travel experience for our customers and trains that run on time. Fortunately, the planned test of the new trains for M1/M2 has gone better than expected, and the number of test days for the rest of the year has therefore been reduced, which is a great advantage for customers. In the new year, we will expand to other parts of the lines, where more trains will be tested, so we can be ready to let customers enjoy the new trains during the autumn’, says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Metroselskabet Board of Directors.

The board was also briefed on the current situation, where COVID-19 continues to place restrictions on Metro, customers and society in general. With the authorities' latest recommendations and guidelines, the Metro must continue to operate with focus on the restrictions that this entails and with great attention to customer safety and security.

Customers are therefore encouraged to keep their distance, remember to wear a face mask and comply with the authorities' requirements and recommendations through loudspeaker announcements, posters at stations, and on information and advertising screens. In addition, customers are encouraged to travel outside rush hour if they can.

Passenger numbers in the Metro are still significantly below normal for the time of year. In week 42, passenger numbers were approximately 60 per cent of pre-COVID-19 levels, taking into account the time of year. The Metro is thus missing around 40 per cent of its passengers.

On the M4 Sydhavn construction project, the focus is on creating momentum and reaching the important milestones along the way. The two tunnel boring machines are approaching Ny Ellebjerg, where they are expected to break through in the next month or so. When the machines have broken through to Ny Ellebjerg, they will have transformed just over 3 kilometres of the capital's underground into a new metro tunnel.

At the meeting, the Board of Directors approved to close the construction budgets for M3 line and M4 Nordhavn and to inform the owners accordingly. The Company will also inform the owners that there will be no need for the DKK 513 million that the owners have set aside in the central correction reserve for M4 Nordhavn.

The Company's Chairman of the Board Jørn Neergaard Larsen welcomed the company's new Vice Chairman Andreas Keil, appointed by the City of Copenhagen, who has joined the Board in place of Lars Weiss. Lars Weiss has resigned from the Company's Board of Directors as he has been appointed Lord Mayor.

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News from the board meeting on 28 August 2020

At the meeting, the Board received the annual status of Metroselskabet's occupational health and safety efforts in relation to work at the construction sites. In the first half of 2020, there has been an increase in the number of lost-time accidents on the Sydhavn project in parallel with an increased level of activity on the project. However, there was also a decrease in the proportion of serious accidents. The 10 lost-time accidents in 2020 can thus be categorised as less serious, such as tripping accidents. With an average accident frequency rate for the past 12 months of 13.4, the Sydhavn project is significantly below the national average of 24.4 for everyone in the construction industry and 30.9 for workers on construction sites. The Sydhavn project still performs significantly better than the M3 line at a similar stage of the project.

‘Metroselskabet has a clear goal that no one should be injured on the projects. It's very ambitious. But the effort is highly prioritised, and we got off to a much better start at Sydhavn than on M3 line, where we ended up in a better place than we did on M1/M2. Working with safety and the working environment requires a constant and sustained effort - not least because of the enormous size and complexity of the metro projects. Therefore, safety must continue to be a very central part of what we all do. Every day,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Metroselskabet Board of Directors.

Finally, the board was also briefed on the status of the replacement of hand sanitiser and the use of face masks in the Metro.

***

News from the board meeting on 26 June 2020

At the meeting, the Board was briefed on the development of passenger numbers in the Metro in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis. The board was also informed that the current restriction, which means that the maximum capacity per metro train must not exceed 50 per cent, is expected to be severely challenged as Denmark reopens, especially when, for example, schools and educational institutions reopen for teaching after the summer.

‘Metroselskabet is working with information that focuses on making passengers feel safe and instructing appropriate behaviour in the Metro. The Company closely monitors the development in passenger numbers and makes ongoing adjustments,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Metroselskabet Board of Directors.

The Company has since the installation of hand sanitiser at Copenhagen Airport evaluated the effort, and it is now possible for the operator to guarantee the necessary security of supply of alcohol so that hand sanitiser can be installed at all metro stations during July 2020.

At the meeting, the board received a report on the sound from trains along the M3 line and M4 Nordhavn and the measurements carried out and the work to reduce the nuisance for the neighbours. Based on this, the Board decided that the construction of the M3 line and M4 Nordhavn should be reported to the Expropriation Commission.

Finally, the Board was briefed on the development of a new climate footprint model for the Metro. In 2019, as part of the CSR strategy, the Board decided to establish a knowledge base in the form of an analysis of the Metro's total climate impact with a focus on construction and operation, so that targeted efforts can be made where they will have the greatest impact. The Company will thus, among other things, continue to work - in the preparatory work - to identify opportunities for climate-optimising the metro service to Lynetteholm.

Finally, the Board was informed that at the quarterly meeting on 22 June, the owners were informed that the work to establish mobile coverage in M3 and M4 has proven to be more challenging than expected. In a joint press release, Metroselskabet and the mobile operators have announced that the parties are working together to solve each of the specific challenges that arise and that it has been agreed that the opening for passenger use of the mobile network can be done in stages as the individual lines are completed. It is therefore expected that the mobile network on the Nordhavn line can be taken into use during the summer and on the other lines during the autumn.

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News from the board meeting on 29 May 2020

At the meeting, the Board received an update on the COVID-19 crisis and its financial and passenger-related consequences for the Metro. On this basis, the Board discussed how The Company can best work in the future to restore growth and get passengers back on the Metro within the given framework set by the COVID-19 restrictions on the Company's operations.

‘We are entering a time when restrictions and limitations are likely to continue, and where they could change in unknown directions and at an unknown pace. This places great demands on our handling of the situation and our efforts to get customers back and restore growth. In this work, Metroselskabet must ensure that all our passengers can rightly feel safe,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of Metroselskabet's Board of Directors.

The Company's Board of Directors decided to change the Company's commercial action plan for the remainder of the strategy period (2018-2022) to focus on getting passengers back and restoring growth to bring passenger numbers in line with passenger forecasts. The changes will be made based on and in accordance with the authorities' guidelines.

The Board also received a briefing on the feasibility study for metro services to Lynetteholmen, including a review of the three main proposals with status on alignments, track type, station locations and a number of other key results. The briefing was a follow-up to the latest status given at the board meeting in January.

The parties behind the feasibility study are the City of Copenhagen, the Ministry of Transport and Frederiksberg Municipality. In addition, City and Port of Copenhagen and the Danish Road Directorate participate in the project steering group. The results will be reported to the project steering committee by the end of May. Publication of the feasibility study and political consideration is expected after the summer holidays.

Finally, the Board received an update on the metro construction in Sydhavn. The Board noted that the second tunnel boring machine (Olivia) broke through to Sluseholmen on 27 May. The first machine (Inge) arrived at Sluseholmen on 8 April and is now drilling on towards Mozarts Plads.

***

News from the board meeting on 27 March 2020

At the meeting, the Board discussed the COVID-19 crisis and its major consequences for the Metro. In recent weeks, the Board has received regular reports from Metroselskabet on the efforts and handling that have been initiated as a result of the clear calls from the government and the authorities.

The Company has, among other things, launched a very broad and visible passenger information campaign, quickly initiated extra cleaning throughout the system and tried to get customers to travel outside rush hour or find other means of transport.

‘As a result of the Metroselskabet's efforts, the number of passengers has fallen by around 80 per cent, which shows that the customer initiatives have worked and that passengers have followed the recommendations so that the Metro can run for the benefit of those who need it. That's the most important thing right now. But it is clear that The Company is also facing a time when both the short-term and long-term consequences in terms of passenger numbers and finances are expected to be very significant,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of The Company's Board of Directors.

Based on a briefing, the board discussed the possible risks and consequences that the COVID-19 crisis is expected to bring in both the short and long term. Among other things, the previous assumptions for passenger development must be reassessed, which also means that Metroselskabet faces a large and important task in getting passengers back into the system again on the other side of the current crisis.

The Board was also briefed on the ongoing monitoring of Metroselskabet's construction activities. Production is severely challenged and parts of the work have either come to a standstill or are running at significantly reduced capacity. Together with the contractors, Metroselskabet is focusing on taking the best possible care of employees and ensuring that work is carried out under safe conditions.

It is still expected that M4 Nordhavn will open as planned on 28 March to ensure more departures on the Copenhagen Central Station-Ø Østerport line [editorial note: M4 Nordhavn opened for passengers on 28 March]. However, the Metroselskabet still urges passengers to exercise extreme caution and only make necessary journeys by bus, train and metro. Based on the current risk picture, both the opening celebration and the official inauguration of the new metro line have naturally been cancelled.

Finally, the Board discussed Metroselskabet's ongoing work with climate adaptation and preparedness in relation to storm surges and cloudbursts.

***

News from the board meeting on 31 January 2020

At the meeting, the Board received a status on the preliminary passenger numbers for January, which have naturally been affected by the two-week closure of M3 in connection with the completion of M4 Nordhavn. Passenger numbers are therefore around 2.5 million passengers in M3. At the same time, operational stability for the weeks when the M3 was in operation was 98.9 per cent overall and 98.7 per cent during rush hour.

The board was also informed about the progress of the temporary shutdown of the M3 line. Overall, the metro buses have delivered satisfactory operational stability throughout the period, and there has also been sufficient capacity of buses deployed. In addition, there have generally been few customer enquiries about the closure.

 ‘We are, of course, pleased that the M3 line closure has gone so relatively painlessly. That said, we would like to thank our customers for their patience and we are pleased that they have returned to the system after the reopening on 27 January. This shows that there is great interest in travelling with the M3 line, and we are therefore focusing on getting our customers back’, says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Metroselskabet Board of Directors.

At the meeting, the board also approved Metroselskabet's working environment strategy for 2020 and 2021, which is a continuation of the strategy for 2018 and 2019, which was based on experiences from the Danish oil and gas industry and the construction industry in other countries. At the centre of the strategy was the vision that everyone should be able to work without injury.

The development in accident rates has been positive across the projects during the strategy period. With the new strategy, Metroselskabet aims to continue some of the activities from the previous strategy period and add a number of new activities in 2020 and 2021.

Finally, the board was briefed on the upcoming opening of M4 Nordhavn, which is set for 28 March 2020. The project is progressing as planned, and Metroselskabet expects the new metro line to open on time.

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News from the board meeting on 20 December 2019

At the meeting, the board received a status on the preliminary passenger figures for December. The figures show that there is continued growth in passenger numbers on the M3 M3 line and that the growth has a positive impact on the M1 and M2. Passenger numbers remain at approximately 1 million passengers per week in M3. Overall for the Metro (M1, M2 and M3), there have been almost 10 million passengers in December, of which almost 4 million in M3 alone. 

‘The passenger numbers show that there is great interest in travelling with the M3 line, and that there has also been a good growth in the number of customers on the M1 and M2. This is of course very positive. In 2020, we will pay close attention to ensuring that commuters benefit from the system,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Metroselskabet Board of Directors.

The board also received a briefing on Metroselskabet's work to reduce noise from the trains on the M3 line. Approximately 15,000 people live on top of the M3 line. Before the rails were ground, there were around 300 noise complaints from neighbours on the line. After the track grinding was completed, information was sent out to the neighbours, and The Company subsequently received 168 complaints about continued nuisance. The number of complaints is thus moving in the right direction.

In the coming period, The Company will take measurements of some of the neighbours who still feel bothered by the noise from the trains. The Company will then look at how various measures can be taken to further reduce the noise. All measurements taken so far are below the limit value.

Finally, the Board received an update on the process and plan for the opening of the new metro line to Nordhavn. An opening date will be announced after the turn of the year. The test phase on M4 Nordhavn will affect the M3 line (M3) and will require the M3 to be closed to passengers for two weeks from mid-January. During this period, Metroselskabet will deploy metro buses and focus on informing and assisting customers as much as possible.

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News from the board meeting on 29 November 2019

At the meeting, the board was presented with the preliminary passenger figures for the month of November. The figures show that passenger numbers continue to grow throughout the Metro (M1, M2 and M3), and the M3 line's passenger numbers are just under 1 million passengers per week. Fridays and Saturdays have been particularly busy days.

‘It is very satisfying that there is still a great interest in the M3 line and that it brings the passenger numbers up in the entire Metro’, says Chairman of the Board, Jørn Neergaard Larsen.

At the meeting, the board was briefed on the status of the grinding of the M3 line's rails, which has been completed. In the near future, measurements will be carried out among neighbours to assess the soundscape in order to be able to continue working to reduce any inconvenience.

The Board also received an update on the completion of the M4 to Nordhavn, where the trains are being test run. In the new year, the test run of the trains for the M4 will be extended to the line from Copenhagen Central Station towards Orientkaj. This means that the trains will be tested on parts of the line, where five stations coincide with the M3 line and thus cannot avoid affecting operations. The board discussed how to strike the best balance between ensuring the rapid completion of the M4 on the one hand and minimising disruption to M3 line passengers as much as possible during the test period on the other.

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News from the board meeting on 31 October 2019

At the meeting, the board was briefed on the passenger numbers for the M3 line in the first month after opening.  The figures show that the Metro (M1, M2 and M3) had a total of 10.4 million passengers during the period, of which 4.1 million were in M3 alone. The passenger numbers show that the M3 line has got off to a good start and that customers have responded very positively to the capital's new metro line.

The number of passengers is within the expected range for the number of journeys per month in the first months after opening and above the central estimate for the opening month (2.1 million passengers), which is incorporated in The Company's passenger budget. At the same time, operational stability for the first month has been 97.5 per cent, which means that approximately 333,200 of the approximately 341,760 departures per day have been on time.

‘It has been a good start for the M3 line - both in terms of operations and passengers. However, there will continue to be operational challenges - especially when we shortly start testing the branch line from M3 line to Nordhavn (M4), which will open in spring 2020. High passenger numbers in the first few months do not necessarily indicate that the M3 line will exceed passenger expectations in the longer term - and vice versa. Only at a later date will it be possible to say with reasonable certainty whether M3 line passenger numbers will exceed expectations or not,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Metroselskabet Board of Directors.

Part of the testing of the Nordhavn line will affect the M3 line's main line (M3) and will necessitate interruptions in operations. However, this will be limited to closures at night and some weekends.

***

News from the board meeting on 27 September 2019
At the meeting, the board was informed that on 25 September, the Danish Transport, Construction and Housing Authority gave its final approval for the M3 line to carry passengers. The authorisation follows thousands of tests of the driverless trains and the new system. Based on extensive documentation - including the preparation of 1.4 million documents - the authorities have assessed that the basis for a safety authorisation is in order.

‘The authorities' safety authorisation concludes the many years of work to obtain documentation for a driverless system. There are very high standards for obtaining a safety authorisation, and we would like to thank the authorities and the independent assessor for the professional cooperation we have had. The authorisation is the final, important milestone, and we can now open the M3 line as planned on Sunday and welcome all the many thousands of new customers in the new system,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Board of Metroselskabet.

 The licence will be granted as the last one immediately before opening. It is normal practice that issued approvals and permits contain a number of conditions that must be fulfilled before passenger operations and after commencement of passenger operations, respectively. Metroselskabet is focusing on meeting these conditions, which is why there will be extra staffing at M3 line stations during the initial period. 

At the meeting, the board was also briefed on the status of the M3 line, which is the penultimate in the series. The final status of the M3 line will be given at the board meeting in October. The Board will subsequently be kept informed about the finalisation of the last outstanding issues.

In addition, the Board discussed the disruptions to the operation of the M3 line expected as a result of testing of the Metro to Nordhavn and ‘teething problems’ in the M3 line.

***

News from the board meeting on 30 August 2019
At the meeting, the board was briefed on the status of the M3 line completion, including the final testing of the system and the rectification of errors and defects - and the remaining risks until the opening. The Board also received an overview of the plans for the opening event on Sunday 29 September. The Board also decided that on the opening day there will be free transport for all travellers in the Metro.

‘Opening the M3 line after eight years of metro construction is naturally a big and very joyful event. We look forward to welcoming thousands of new customers to the new system. On the opening day there will be free transport for all Metro customers, and we hope that as many people as possible will come and help celebrate the fact that the capital is getting a brand new and unified metro system,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Board of Metroselskabet. 

Metroselskabet will present the final programme for the opening day in early September.

At the meeting, the board was briefed on the operational stability of the Metro in June and July. Operational stability indicates the proportion of scheduled departures that depart on time. In June the figure was 99.8 per cent and in July 99.3 per cent. The June figure is the highest in the Metro's history, surpassing the record from April 2017 of 99.7 per cent. The total figure for operational stability to date is 99.3 per cent.

***

News from the board meeting on 27 June 2019
In May, Metroselskabet announced that the M3 line's opening date had to be postponed by two months, from the end of July to the end of September. The Company also announced that a more precise opening date would be announced in June. The Company's Board of Directors has today reviewed the Company's status on the progress and risks related to the completion of the M3 line, and as a result, the Board determined that the opening date will be Sunday 29 September 2019.

‘The Board has been presented with the status of the completion of the M3 line and we are now very close to being able to open the doors to a brand new and unified metro network in the capital. In the coming months, the final tests and final regulatory approval must be in place so we can open for passengers,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Metroselskabet Board of Directors.

However, the date is subject to the final approval from the authorities to operate with passengers. The Company believes that this timetable is realistic. However, it requires all parties to deliver an efficient and coordinated effort. In August, Metroselskabet will present the programme for the actual opening day.

At the meeting, the board also received a review of an analysis conducted by Metroselskabet of the possibility of extending a high-class public transport solution from Ny Ellebjerg Station to Hvidovre and Bispebjerg hospitals. The analysis was initiated in connection with the agreement on financing an underground metro station at Ny Ellebjerg in 2016.
The analysis has now been completed and a report has been produced that explains the possibilities and potentials of extending the high-class public transport from Ny Ellebjerg. The report has been politically discussed in the municipalities behind the study, and a mandate has been given for further discussions.

***

News from the board on 24 May 2019

At the meeting, the board was briefed on the status of the feasibility study for the metro service to Lynetteholmen, where work is now continuing on three alignments in the technical investigation. It is still expected that the feasibility study can be submitted to the project steering group in early 2020.

The Board also approved a number of renovations to the Control and Maintenance Center for M1/M2 to make room for the eight newly purchased trains that will help alleviate the capacity challenges in the Metro. Among other things, the remodelling will ensure that there is room to maintain all 42 trains on M1/M2 once the eight additional trains are in service.

Finally, The Company discussed the status of the M3 line following the company's announcement earlier this week of a new timetable for the opening of the capital's new metro line.

‘Overall, it's now about finalising the final work on the project so that we can welcome the many customers who are looking forward to using the new metro network. Together with the contractors, we have drawn up an updated and realistic schedule that means the M3 line can open at the end of September. But it still requires an effective and focused effort from all parties, so we can ensure a qualified basis for obtaining the final safety approval,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Board of Metroselskabet.

***

News from the board on 26 April 2019

At the meeting, the board received an update on the work to complete the M3 line. Following the contractor CMT's failure to achieve the so-called RHO milestone, which should have been achieved by the end of March, The Company is now working with the two contractors, CMT and Hitachi Rail STS, to analyse the possibility of further optimising the completion of the remaining works so that the overall schedule can be maintained. It is still the Metroselskabet's expectation that an opening date for the M3 line can be announced in June.

‘If we don't succeed in optimising the remaining work, the failure to reach the milestone will delay the M3 line. Because even if there are minor things missing, there is very little time left to achieve the last thing. We still believe that it is possible to open on schedule, but it will require a major and coordinated effort from all parties to succeed,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Metroselskabet Board of Directors.

At the meeting, the board approved the introduction of uniform guidelines throughout the year for carrying bicycles on the Metro. This means that the current arrangement, whereby in June, July and August it is permitted to take bicycles with you 24 hours a day, will be discontinued with effect from summer 2019. The reason for the decision is a general increase in passenger numbers during the summer months, which means that there is no longer the same decline in passenger numbers during the summer months as previously seen. In addition, one bicycle occupies the same capacity as five passengers, and the inclusion of bicycles affects the flow when boarding and alighting.

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News from the Board of Directors on 29 March 2019

At the meeting, the board was presented with a review and initial assessment of the achievement of the important milestone (Ready for Hand Over) on the M3 line at the end of March. However, the final assessment will not be available until the review of the overall progress is finalised in early April.

At that time, it is expected that both an assessment of the status of the progress of the contractor's work and an estimate of any time implications for the completion of the M3 line will be available.

‘Unfortunately, we are still in a situation where the risk of a delay in the M3 line opening has increased significantly. This is primarily due to the lost production on the architectural work in the stations in January, but the delay has also affected the completion of the necessary tests of the technical systems and thus the possibility of commencing trial operation,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Board of Metroselskabet.

The Company still expects Metroselskabet to announce an opening date for the M3 line once it has assessed whether the next major milestones in the project have been achieved. This is expected to happen during April, subject to final safety approval.

At the meeting, the Board also received an update on the M1/M2 investment programme, which will see a number of significant reinvestments in Metro trains and the Metro's control system up to 2025. At the same time, capacity is being expanded to meet the expected increase in passenger numbers up to 2035.

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News from the Board of Directors on 28 February 2019

At the meeting, the board approved a plan for the overall marketing of the M3 line and the Nordhavn Line as well as the main events planned to be organised in connection with the opening. The activities will help attract customers as soon as possible after the opening of the new combined metro network.

At a future meeting, the board will be presented with an overall plan for the organisation of events in connection with the opening, including neighbouring events.

As assumed in the agreement signed in January, the progress of the AF works had reached 78 per cent by the end of February. The agreement has thus had the desired effect on the progress of the AF works. The limited production in January, which was directly related to the architectural work in the stations, also affected the completion of the necessary tests of the technical systems and thus the possibility of starting trial operation. The delay in the testing of the technical systems means that the risk of delaying the M3 line's completion remains significant.

‘The closer we get to the opening date, the more difficult it will be to make up for delays due to the limited time left to complete the M3 line. To actively contribute to reducing the risk of delays, Metroselskabet has therefore set up two task force groups to assist the contractors in coordinating and promoting physical works and tests as well as providing the basis for the safety approval,’ says Jørn Neergaard Larsen, Chairman of the Board of Metroselskabet.

The Company expects to be able to announce an opening date for the M3 line when it has assessed whether the planned milestones at the end of March and April have been achieved. This will be subject to final safety approval.

The M3 line schedule is still based on the project being completed by the end of July, and the contractor CMT's deliveries and daily fines are tied to this.

Metroselskabet's Board of Directors continues to follow the work closely and reports regularly on progress and risks.

At the meeting, the board also approved Metroselskabet's annual report for 2018, which will then be presented to the owners at the annual partnership meeting.

***

News from the Board of Directors on 25 January 2019

The construction of the M3 line is in its final phase, and Metroselskabet's Board of Directors continues to follow the work closely and regularly reports on progress and risks. The rails have been laid, trains and train systems are being tested, platform doors have been installed, the main stairs have been moulded, and work on skylights, ceiling cladding and wall cladding is underway.

The work on the interior design of the stations is one of the focus areas identified by Metroselskabet as one of four risks to be monitored with special attention. Metroselskabet has realised that the anticipated rapid refurbishment after New Year, which is considered crucial to meeting the agreed deadlines, has not taken place.

After a number of discussions between CMT and Metroselskabet, the parties - in order to minimise the risk of delays and increased costs - have reached a solution that the board has approved. The solution maintains the current schedule, but it is Metroselskabet's assessment that the risk of delay is significantly increased due to the very low activity on CMT's works in January.

As significant daily penalties are attached to the contract milestones, this means that significant daily penalties are still attached to CMT's achievement of the milestone at the end of March (the RHO milestone), and in addition, sanctions related to the ongoing compliance with the progress of the AF works have been added. This provides a strong incentive for CMT to get back on schedule. The M3 line schedule is still based on the project being completed by the end of July, and the contractor CMT's deliveries and daily penalties are tied to this.

The Company expects to be able to announce an opening date after it has assessed whether the planned milestones at the end of March and April have been achieved. The Company will then be able to announce an expected opening date, subject to final security clearance.

In addition, the Board of Directors has approved a plan for activities in 2019 to attract customers as soon as possible when the M3 line opens. The activity plan is part of the commercial action plan and also includes a description of activities to give passengers a coherent travel experience, such as shared passenger information, announcements etc. across the new metro lines.

The Board also approved the Metroselskabet's digitalisation strategy, which forms the basis for how the Company will work with digitalisation in the future. The aim is to ensure better use and implementation of digital work processes and to support The Company's work with easier procedures and higher quality.

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News from the Board of Directors on 14 December 2018

At the Board meeting on 14 December 2018, The Company's Board of Directors approved the budget for 2019, which includes the company's operating budget and investment budget.

At the meeting, the Board was also briefed on Metroselskabet's procurement of heavy vehicles with a view to ensuring that new purchases comply with the latest Euro 6 standard, which has applied to the sale of new vehicles since 2015. The Company will incorporate in the procurement guidelines that the current Euro 6 standard is mandatory and a recommendation to investigate whether it is possible to use an alternative fuel than fossil fuel when purchasing smaller vehicles.

The Company was also informed about the company's power purchases via Energi Danmark, including the purchase of green power.

Finally, the Board received an update on the operation of the Metro. In November, the overall operational stability was 99.5 per cent, which is the highest SA figure to date in 2018, and 99.6 per cent during rush hour.  The overall target for 2018 was at least 98.0.

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News from the Board of Directors on 30 November 2018

At the board meeting on 30 November, the board discussed the draft of Metroselskabet's CSR report for 2018. As a result of joining the UN Global Compact initiative, The Company is obliged to submit an annual report to the UN on its CSR activities.

The Board of Directors also approved the selected CSR focus areas for 2019, which are based on the UN's Sustainable Development Goal 3 on the working environment and Sustainable Development Goal 13 on the green sector. The focus areas have been selected based on The Company's CSR definition, where the Company commits to making an extra effort that goes beyond legislation, binding regulations and the Company's ordinary activities.

‘As a developer of mega projects of great public interest, Metroselskabet has a special obligation to be among the frontrunners when it comes to safety in the construction industry. The Company has therefore initiated extensive work to strengthen the safety culture within the organisation and on our projects. The Company will also focus on taking the next targeted steps to reduce its climate footprint in the construction phase, operations and administration,’ says Chairman of the Board Jørn Neergaard Larsen.

The Board also received a status report on the M3 line with a focus on progress in November, after one of the important milestones in the work towards opening has been reached. We are continuing to work purposefully and focussed on reaching the goal before the start of the full test run. Among other things, staffing levels have been increased again from October to November, while in the coming period there will be increased focus on the complicated testing of trains.

***

News from the board on 26 October 2018

Based on the government and the City of Copenhagen's agreement in principle to build a new island, Lynetteholmen, between Nordhavn and Refshaleøen, the Board of Directors approved at its meeting on 26 October to initiate work on a feasibility study for a metro connection to the area.

‘The total new area to be served by the metro is currently estimated to be the same size as Hillerød. This is a very large area that currently lacks the necessary infrastructure. The area is peripheral to the rest of Copenhagen, and the desire for metro service in the area will therefore be crucial for urban development and for realising the desire for a sustainable district,’ says Chairman of the Board Jørn Neergaard Larsen.

According to the agreement in principle, the feasibility study is expected to be completed by the end of 2019 and will be financed by Metroselskabet. The board approved the preparation of a proposal for the final budget for the study, which will be presented to the board in early 2019. 

The Board also received an update on the M3 line, which has just passed one of the important milestones in the work towards opening. In a few weeks, it will be clear whether the milestone has been reached.

‘Completing the most important work at the stations requires a coordinated and focussed effort to reach the goal before the start of the full test run. We are working purposefully on this, and among other things, staffing on the layout of the stations has been increased,’ says Chairman of the Board Jørn Neergaard Larsen.

The board also received an update on the metro construction in Nordhavn. Work on the elevated railway and Orientkaj Station is progressing as planned, and there are no changes to the current schedule. The opening for passengers is still expected to take place in early 2020.

***

News from the Board of Directors on 28 September 2018 

At the meeting on 28 September, the Board received a presentation by Søren T. Pedersen, Director of Planning at the City of Copenhagen, who presented the municipality's work on analyses of the expansion of the public infrastructure in the metropolitan area with a focus on Metro, Light Rail and BRT systems, including the so-called KIK2 analysis. 

The analyses of future development in the capital are all based on increased population growth. For example, the population in the metropolitan area is expected to increase by 200,000 by 2030, which corresponds to a growth of approximately nine per cent, and a consequent need for more mobility in the capital. 

The Board was also given an overview of the risk of a possible delay in the opening of the M3 line, as there is still complicated work to be done, which is crucial to the timetable. In particular, the progress of the architectural design of the metro stations and the electrical installations requires a coordinated and focussed effort to reach the goal before the start of the full test run. 

‘The M3 line is still scheduled to open in summer 2019. But it requires a focused and major effort from all parties in the final stages of construction, especially the contractors. We are therefore working purposefully to complete the last important works so that customers can start using the capital's new, coherent metro system as planned,’ says Chairman of the Board Jørn Neergaard Larsen. 

The Board of Directors will maintain an increased focus on the risk of a possible delay and will closely monitor and discuss the current progress in the coming months. The Board has also decided that Metroselskabet will actively support CMT's ability - within the agreed collective agreement framework - to utilise the remaining working hours on the project as flexibly as possible in order to reduce the risk of a drop in production. 

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News from the Board of Directors on 31 August 2018

At its meeting on 31 August, the Board of Directors approved the commercial action plan for Metroselskabet for the period 2018-2022. The action plan consists of three focus areas, including the opening of the M3 line and the Nordhavn Metro. The opening and the commercial launch will be the biggest event for The Company in the next two years. The launch will focus on the time immediately before and after the opening, with the aim of ensuring that as many passengers as possible use the Metro system as a whole from day one.

‘In the years immediately following the opening of the M3 line and the metro to Nordhavn, Metroselskabet must ensure coherence between the new lines and the existing metro. The Company must also ensure that the capital's public transport system and its customers get the full benefit of the new, coherent metro network. In this connection, customers must be helped to make easy and efficient use of the new connections between the Metro, trains and buses,’ says Chairman of the Board Jørn Neergaard Larsen.

In the coming years, passenger growth in the Metro due to population growth will put pressure on the capacity of the existing Metro, which is why Metroselskabet has allocated funds to expand capacity so that the Metro can continue to deliver a high level of operational stability and service while maintaining the system and serving more passengers.

The Board also discussed the risk of a possible delay in the opening of the M3 line, given that there is still complicated work to be done, which is crucial in relation to the timetable. The Board reviewed the progress of the electrical installations and the layout of the stations, which are essential works ahead of the full test run. In the coming months, the Board will have extra focus on the risk of a possible delay and will closely follow and discuss the current progress.

Finally, the Board approved the information to the owners about the M3 line and decided that, going forward, reports will be sent to the owners on a monthly basis on a number of measuring points.

***

News from the Board of Directors on 29 June 2018

At the meeting on 29 June, the Board received a status report on the Metroselskabet's climate adaptation efforts, where The Company is continuously working to increase the Metro's protection against extreme weather events. The Company's efforts include all existing and future metro lines and are based on the company's risk register, where both storm surges and cloudbursts are identified as events with potential risk to operations and facilities. Since the early 1990s, the Metroselskabet has used a so-called 2000-year event, which must be considered a high level of protection.

‘In recent years, we have experienced more and heavier cloudbursts and more episodes with increased water levels in connection with storms. As a consequence, Metroselskabet has continuously adjusted its climate adaptation programme so that it is based on the latest forecasts and incidents. The Company's Board of Directors will also discuss the level of the company's climate-proofing efforts annually and, in connection with the upcoming budget process, discuss the establishment of a possible permanent pool for climate-proofing the various metro lines,’ says Chairman of the Board Jørn Neergaard Larsen.

In recent years, Metroselskabet has intensified its climate adaptation activities to ensure stable and timely operations on the Metro. This work has included cloudburst protection of shafts and technical rooms as well as descents to the tunnel sections via watertight doors, railings and barriers. In addition, the Metro's Control and Maintenance Center has been flood-proofed.

Alongside the protection of the existing Metro, Metroselskabet has carried out analyses to protect the M3 line and the new branches to Nordhavn and Sydhavn. Metroselskabet is also continuously focusing on new climate forecasts that may affect the cloudburst risk and climate-proofing of the Metro.

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News from the Board of Directors on 25 May 2018

At the meeting on 25 May, the Board was informed about Metroselskabet's implementation of the rules for handling personal data and documentation under the EU's new General Data Protection Regulation, which comes into force today.

‘Metroselskabet has prepared an internal policy for the processing of personal data, various procedures and templates for employees‘ processing of personal data and for information on the Company's platforms such as the website, etc. The Company has also focused throughout May on ensuring the implementation of the new procedures in the Company's workflows,’ says Chairman of the Board Jørn Neergaard Larsen.

The Board was also briefed on the status of the decided investments in the existing Metro M1/M2, where a contract has been signed for the purchase of eight new trains to increase the capacity of the system and reduce congestion. Production of the trains is expected to start at the end of 2018 for delivery in Copenhagen in early 2021.

At the meeting, the Board also received an update on the M3 line project and the implementation of the quality supplement decided in connection with the political agreement on the M3 line (2005) and the M3 line Act (2007). The surcharge is part of the financing of the capital's new Metro line and will add an average of DKK 1 per passenger to all journeys on the Metro when the M3 line opens.

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News from the Board of Directors on 23 March 2018

At the meeting on 23 March, the Board was informed about the ongoing process of securing the necessary permits to put the M3 line into operation in 2019. The safety authorisation for the M3 line consists of four sub-areas, and the Danish Transport, Construction and Housing Authority (TBST) is the safety authority for all of them. In three areas, TBST's approval is prepared by an independent assessor, while TBST is responsible for the approval of one area.

‘It's crucial that we ensure a good and timely process when it comes to obtaining the necessary permits to put the M3 line into operation. Not least because the work involves an extensive amount of documents and complicated tests,’ says Chairman of the Board Jørn Neergaard Larsen.

The authorisation process is based on current European standards and regulations issued by TBST. The Metro is also subject to the German set of rules, BOstrab, which is used in a number of countries because it is the most comprehensive, coherent and tested set of rules for metros, including driverless metros and Light Rail.

The Metroselskabet has agreed an overall timeline for the approval process with the associated independent assessor and TBST. The process will be finalised once TBST has issued a commissioning permit and a successful trial operation of the system has been completed. Passenger operations on the M3 line will then be able to commence.

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News from the Board of Directors on 31 January 2017

At its meeting on 31 January, the board decided on a new working environment strategy for 2018 and 2019. For several years, The Company has been working to improve safety on the metro construction site in collaboration with the company's contractors. The various initiatives have had varying effects, but have not really succeeded in significantly changing the accident picture, even though the efforts have been highly prioritised. In 2016, Metroselskabet therefore initiated a collaboration with the Danish oil and gas industry to exchange experiences, and in 2017, the board also decided to commission an analysis of Metroselskabet's work environment efforts.

‘It is crucial to us that all employees who help build and operate the Metro get home safely from work every day. That's why Metroselskabet has identified four strategic pillars that will form the cornerstones of the new working environment strategy. ‘First and foremost, we must ensure a strong safety culture based on training, learning and prevention, and safety and the working environment must be considered already in the design phase,’ says Chairman of the Board Jørn Neergaard Larsen.

A pool of DKK 20 million has been allocated over two years to support a lasting transformation of The Company's work environment efforts. The money will be spent on a comprehensive training programme, a partnership process with main contractors on upcoming projects and a new incident reporting system, among other things.

At the meeting, the Board also discussed the new business strategy, which sets the framework for the Company's work in the period 2018-2022. In connection with the preparation of the new strategy, the Board held a number of strategy discussions last year, including the Company's finances, business development and CSR work. These areas are therefore central to the new business strategy.

‘In the coming strategy period, Metroselskabet's task focus will change character. The M3 line will open in July 2019, and therefore one of The Company's most important focus areas will be to create a coherent and well-functioning metro system. At the same time, the new metro lines to Nordhavn and Sydhavn will open in 2020 and 2024, respectively, and the Company's construction portfolio will therefore be reduced during the strategy period, while the operational task will be significantly larger,’ says the Chairman of the Board.

Finally, the Board was briefed on passenger numbers for 2017, which grew by almost two per cent, corresponding to 1.1 million more passengers compared to the previous year. In total, 63.5 million passengers used the Metro in 2017.

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News from the Board of Directors on 15 December 2017

At the meeting on 15 December, the Board of Directors was presented with the results of the recently completed tender process for the operation and maintenance contract for the existing Metro, which expires on 31 December 2018. On this basis, the Board approved that Metroselskabet can enter into a new five-year contract with the bidder Metro Service A/S, which is also responsible for the current contract.

‘In recent years, Metro Service has ensured a high level of operational stability and has thus contributed to high passenger satisfaction in the Metro and impressive passenger growth. With the new contract, which runs until mid-2024, The Company will motivate Metro Service to maintain the high operational reliability and further improve the company's customer service when passenger growth is expected to continue and the capacity challenges in the system become greater,’ says Chairman of the Board Jørn Neergaard Larsen.

In connection with the new contract, a number of improvements have also been made. Among other things, clauses have been incorporated with requirements for wages and working conditions, apprentices and the working environment. A total of three Companies were pre-qualified to bid for the operation of the Metro.

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News from the Board of Directors on 24 November 2017

At the meeting on 24 November, the Board of Directors was presented with the results of the tender for contracts for the Sydhavn Metro, including the chosen award criteria. On this basis, the Board approved the financial basis for entering into the two major contracts for the Sydhavn Metro. Before the contracts can be signed, the financial basis must be approved by the Metroselskabet's owners, which are the Danish state and the municipalities of Frederiksberg and Copenhagen.

‘The Sydhavn Metro will increase the robustness of the capital's public transport system, and the important urban development areas along the new metro line will be more closely linked to the rest of Copenhagen. With a metro connection that runs around the clock at high frequency, Ny Ellebjerg Station will also become a new, strong transport hub with interchanges between the Metro, S-trains and long-distance and regional trains,’ says Chairman Jørn Neergaard Larsen on behalf of Metroselskabet's Board of Directors.

‘The five stations on the Sydhavn Metro are expected to have a total of around nine million passengers a year at the five stations. At the same time, the number of passengers in the entire metro system will increase by around 16 million passengers per year,’ explains the chairman of the board.

The contracts for the Sydhavn Metro include requirements for clauses on pay and employment conditions, apprentices and the working environment.

At the last board meeting in October, the board discussed a new passenger forecast that Metroselskabet has commissioned. The forecast shows a strong growth in passenger numbers towards 2035, and the increase is both larger and earlier than expected. At the meeting on 24 November, the board was therefore presented with a number of proposed solutions that can relieve the increased capacity pressure and meet the increasing passenger numbers in both the short and medium term. According to the board, the various models must be considered in conjunction with the need for reinvestment in the system.

‘The Metro has seen great passenger growth in recent years, and 2016 was another record year with 60 million passengers. It is of course very positive that so many people choose the Metro, but it also puts increased pressure on capacity. Therefore, we have now decided to move forward with a number of concrete proposals for solutions that can help address future capacity challenges,’ explains Jørn Neergaard Larsen.

Finally, the Company's Board was briefed on the focus areas and results of the company's emergency response work for the existing Metro in 2017. The board also approved proposals for focus areas for the emergency response efforts in 2018.

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News from the Board of Directors on 27 October 2017

At its meeting on 27 October, the Board discussed a new passenger forecast commissioned by Metroselskabet. The forecast shows a strong growth in passenger numbers towards 2035. The increase is higher than expected and is partly due to a continued positive expectation for population and labour market development in the metropolitan area.

‘In 2025, the Metro is expected to be the mode of public transport in the capital that carries the most passengers. This is of course very positive. However, the new expectations for passenger growth also bring a number of capacity challenges on the existing metro lines. Therefore, Metroselskabet is currently working on a number of capacity-expanding initiatives to improve capacity on this part of the metro system,’ says Chairman Jørn Neergaard Larsen on behalf of Metroselskabet's Board of Directors.

The updated passenger forecast shows a growth in future passenger numbers that is approximately 30 per cent higher than previously expected. Towards the turn of the year, the board will be presented with a number of different solutions to relieve the increased capacity pressure.

At the meeting, the Board also decided on the focus areas for Metroselskabet's work with CSR in 2018. In September, the Board decided that the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals will continue to form the framework for The Company's CSR work. The board has selected nine SDGs that are considered relevant for Metroselskabet to continue working with. At the meeting, the board decided that the primary focus areas for CSR in 2018 will be based on the following SDGs: Health and well-being, clean water and sanitation, and responsible consumption and production. In concrete terms, this means that Metroselskabet will focus on the working environment, reduced consumption of drinking water and neighbourly communication. 

‘Metroselskabet has committed to an annual selection of focus areas for its CSR work. This is primarily to ensure that there is always the necessary focus and prioritisation of The Company's CSR initiatives, and that we always work with the most current and relevant CSR areas. ’, explains Jørn Neergaard Larsen.   

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News from the Board of Directors on 29 September 2017

At the meeting on 29 September, the Board of Directors discussed Metroselskabet's ongoing work with CSR. This was part of the evaluation of the existing business strategy and the preparation of a new strategy for the period 2018-2022. The discussions are part of a series of strategy discussions in the board, where the CSR part is the last.

The Company emphasises that, as a publicly owned company with a public service purpose, Metroselskabet has CSR as a special focus area in its core business. In particular, it is essential to incorporate sustainability into the Company's business areas.

The Company's CSR initiatives are defined by the Board of Directors as efforts that go beyond statutory and binding rules.

The Board also approved the ticket prices for 2018. As a general rule, each year the Metroselskabet Board of Directors is presented with the joint agreement between the transport companies on prices for the coming year for formal approval. The new prices will come into effect in January, and there will generally be minimal increases in ticket prices for 2018.

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News from the Board of Directors on 31 May 2017

At the meeting on 31 May, the Board of Directors discussed Metroselskabet's operations as a core business. This was part of the evaluation of the existing strategy and the preparation of a new strategy for the period 2018-2022. The discussions are part of a series of strategy discussions in the Board, where the starting point is the increasing population development in the metropolitan area. This increase means, among other things, more passengers in public transport, and the Board is therefore continuously focusing on how to ensure the best possible customer experience in the future while Metroselskabet meets the opportunity for more passengers.

The board was also briefed on the status of the work to finalise the new urban spaces at the M3 line's future stations. In several places in the city - in Vesterbro and Frederiksberg - the green metro fences are now being taken down, and work can now begin on decorating the station squares with paving, trees etc.

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News from the board on 28 April 2017

At its meeting on 28 April, the Board of Directors began a series of discussions on the Metroselskabet's finances as part of the preparation of the upcoming business strategy for the period 2018-2022. The discussions were based on the increasing population growth in the metropolitan area, which means more passengers in public transport. This naturally also applies to the Metro. Therefore, the Board is continuously focusing on making the necessary decisions to ensure financial prioritisation so that the Metro's operational stability, capacity and maintenance can be maintained.

At the meeting, the board was given a status on Metroselskabet's Climate Strategy, which was defined in 2014 and which aims to ensure that metro operations continuously become more energy efficient and in the long term CO2-neutral. The board also received an update on Metroselskabet's Climate Adaptation Strategy, which aims to adapt the metro facilities to future climate change within a financially realistic framework.

The Board was then presented with a report on terrorism preparedness in the Metro, which Metroselskabet has prepared in collaboration with Metro Service. The report is part of an overall order from the Ministry of Transport, Building and Housing for a report on terrorism preparedness for both Metro and S-trains.

The board was also briefed on what will happen on the construction of the M3 line over the next two years until the opening in July 2019. During this period, the focus will be on track laying, the design of stations and urban spaces, and test runs of trains and systems.

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News from the board on 31 March 2017

At its meeting on 31 March, the Board of Directors decided to initiate a mapping and analysis of Metroselskabet's working environment and safety culture. This is in continuation of the CSR strategy for 2017, where the working environment is one of five focus areas. Against this background and as a prelude to the conclusion of contracts for the upcoming Sydhavn Metro, the Board of Directors will make an overall assessment of the results in the working environment area in order to set the framework for the future working environment work.

The Board also received a review of Metroselskabet's work on megatrends and future transport needs. This work was decided by the board in October 2015 with the aim of gaining an overview of the megatrends and driving forces that may affect future transport in the metropolitan area. The thorough analysis work has been compiled in a report that can be used in future analyses and decisions on investments in new infrastructure. The report was prepared in collaboration with the Metroselskabet's and The Creater Copenhagen Light Rail's expert panels, which consist of leading researchers with special insight into transport and urban development.

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News from the Board of Directors on 27 January 2017

At its meeting on 27 January, the Board reviewed the results of the Metro's operations in 2016 and noted with great satisfaction that the ambitious passenger target for the year was met with a total passenger number of over 60 million, which is an increase of almost 6.5 percent compared to the previous year. At the same time, operational stability was further improved, with 99.2 per cent of all trains running on time in 2016.  Following the review, the Board decided on a number of initiatives that will continue to help attract more customers to the Metro in the future. 

The Board received a status report on the M3 line construction projects, the Nordhavn branch line and the Metro to Sydhavn. The Board focused in particular on the M3 line's progress, including the uncertainty related to the M3 line's timetable as a result of the continued standstill in the station design work (AF work) and the additional claims that the contractor has raised with Metroselskabet. The Board noted with satisfaction that work is underway to find a solution.  

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News from the board on 16 December 2016

At its meeting on 16 December, the Board of Directors approved the allocation of funds from Metroselskabet's climate pool for cloudburst and storm surge protection of the existing Metro. The purpose of the climate pool is to ensure that - despite unforeseen and major changes in both national and international climate forecasts - the daily operation of the Metro and the lifetime of the facility can be secured through investments in preventive measures. A total of DKK 55 million has been allocated for this work in the period up to 2021.

The Board was also briefed on the Metro's ongoing emergency preparedness work, including in relation to terrorism, with a focus on cooperation with the relevant authorities. In connection with this work, an analysis will be initiated in 2017 to assess whether - and if so, how - Metroselskabet's emergency preparedness work can be optimised.

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News from the Board of Directors on 25 November 2016

At its meeting on 25 November, the Board of Directors decided on a plan for the upcoming strategy work for reinvestments in the existing Metro. With high punctuality, speed and customer satisfaction, the Metro has carried millions of passengers around the capital for 14 years. The purpose of the strategy work is to get a good start on planning the necessary investments to continue to ensure a good customer experience. The Board is pleased with the Metro's constant passenger growth, which will continue when the M3 line opens. Therefore, the board is focused on securing the necessary capacity and ensuring that the right investments are made over the next 15 years.

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From the board meeting on 28 October 2016

At its meeting on 28 October, the Board of Directors discussed a model to strengthen the environmental initiatives in the procurement strategy for the operation and maintenance of the existing Metro. Over the past 6 years, this incentive model has enabled Metroselskabet to save 20-25 per cent of the Metro's total electricity costs by implementing newer and greener technology, such as investments in energy-saving bulbs at stations and in tunnels, start/stop functionality in escalators and adjustments to timetables.

The Board also received an update on the construction of the M3 line and the upcoming Nordhavn Metro and noted with satisfaction the good progress on both projects. For example, more than 80 per cent of the M3 line tunnels have now been excavated, while the tunnel boring machine has completed the first tunnel between Nordhavn and Øster Søgade.

At a subsequent board seminar, the board received a presentation on the Metro's ongoing preparedness in relation to climate protection and safety, with a focus on the collaboration with the relevant authorities.

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From the board meeting on 30 September 2016

At its meeting on 30 September, the Board of Directors approved a new communication strategy for Metroselskabet's work in the period 2016-2019. The strategy prepares for the significant phase shift as the tunnel work nears completion and work on the design of stations and station forecourts will take place towards the M3 line's opening in 2019. In this connection, communication will gradually be adapted to focus on neighbours and citizens as future customers of the Metro.

The Board also approved a strategy for the procurement of operation and maintenance of the Metro. The current operation and maintenance contract expires on 31 December 2018, and the tender must therefore be completed with a signed contract in early 2018.

The Board discussed the new allegations of organised crime at two metro construction sites that have been reported in the press. The charges were raised in a police report filed by the trade union 3F. The board agreed that full support should be given to the police's further work.

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From the board meeting on 26 August 2016

At the meeting on 26 August, the Board received an update on Metroselskabet's work on the metro line to Sydhavnen. The new Metro line will be connected to the Metro to Nordhavn, so you can travel all the way from Orientkaj in Nordhavn to Ny Ellebjerg in Sydhavnen. The Metro will also connect the new and old Sydhavn and give the whole area a boost with new and modern transport options. Sydhavnen's new metro line will consist of five new stations from Havneholmen to Ny Ellebjerg and is expected to be completed in 2023.

The Board was also given a review of Metroselskabet's latest contract provisions and was pleased to note the inclusion of new social clauses that, for example, impose stricter requirements on future contractors and subcontractors when it comes to the working environment, wages and working conditions. It will also be possible for contractors to gain a competitive advantage if they can deliver excellent health and safety performance. The new contract provisions will form the basis for the tender for the Metro to Sydhavnen.

The Board also reviewed the status of work-related accidents and noted that developments in recent months have taken a more positive direction.

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From the board meeting on 24 June 2016

At the meeting on 24 June, the Board received a presentation on expectations and challenges in relation to the capacity of the existing Metro. Last year, just over 57 million people travelled on the Metro. Passenger numbers have been increasing since the opening in 2002 and will increase further as Copenhagen grows and the system expands. The board therefore discussed how to best meet the expected passenger growth and the need for a possible new investment strategy.

The Board also discussed a number of large financial claims that Metroselskabet has recently received from the main contractor CMT. The claims raised are still only documented to a very limited extent. The Board discussed the further handling of the claims raised.

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From the board meeting on 27 May 2016

At the meeting on 27 May, the Board of Directors received a presentation on how to apply social clauses on Metroselskabet's upcoming projects in order to ensure decent pay and working conditions as well as apprenticeships. Metroselskabet has gained a lot of experience with the challenges that arise on a gigantic project like the M3 line and the Nordhavn line. Against this background, a number of improvements are being introduced for future contracts. These include requirements for self-inspection of subcontractors, expanded sanction options, accommodation requirements, etc.
 
The board has also approved Metroselskabet's new apprenticeship target, which professionals have been involved in assessing and setting. The purpose is to have a fixed and concrete target that is more transparent for contractors and allows Metroselskabet to follow up more effectively. The new target means that the previous 5-7 per cent target changes to a new nominal target, where a target of 62 apprentice FTEs is set for the remaining part of the Cityring project. This corresponds to the way in which The Company sets apprenticeship requirements in the new contracts. In the final phases of the construction, apprentices are expected to specialise in the electrician and structural engineering trades.

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From the board meeting on 13 April 2016

At its meeting on 13 April, the Board of Directors approved the annual report for Metroselskabet I/S for 2015. According to the report, it was another year of record-high operational reliability, a passenger increase of more than one million passengers and new major milestones in the metro construction programme. The annual report will now be presented to the owners at the Company's annual partnership meeting.

The Board also approved that Metroselskabet formally joins the UN Global Compact, which is a set of UN standardised guidelines for corporate social responsibility. Among other things, this means that Metroselskabet must submit an annual report to the UN based on 10 overarching principles, including human rights, labour rights, environment and anti-corruption. Companies that have joined the Global Compact must be able to document how the ten principles have been implemented in the company.

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From the board meeting on 26 February 2016

At its meeting on 26 February, the Board of Directors approved a commercial strategy with a number of targeted initiatives, including further development of Rejsekort with the launch of an app solution that makes it possible to check out after customers have left the station/bus. In 2016, Metroselskabet will also continue its efforts to promote the Metro workplaces, including the many new workplaces being established along the Metro line, in order to visualise the benefits of using the Metro for employees and others. Metroselskabet will also - in collaboration with the other transport companies in DOT - develop awareness of DOT and carry out a number of behavioural campaigns to influence customer behaviour when it comes to bicycles in the Metro and flow at stations. The initiatives will help ensure passenger growth in the future. The new initiatives will ensure that the Metro remains an attractive means of transport in order to maintain high passenger satisfaction and attract more customers.

The Board received a briefing on the working environment at the metro construction site, including a review of a number of new initiatives that will strengthen the working environment at the construction sites in the coming months. Among other things, workshops on safety culture will be organised in spring 2016 for senior employees at both head offices and construction sites. Site managers will also receive training in their responsibilities and tasks in relation to the working environment, and finally, information material will be prepared for employees, focusing on the individual's rights and obligations in relation to the working environment. The material will be produced in several languages.

The Board also approved the initiation of a process in which Metroselskabet, in collaboration with the Danish Arts Foundation, will investigate the possibility of integrating art into one or more of the future metro stations on the Sydhavn line. The Danish Arts Foundation has granted DKK 1 million in artist fees for the project.

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From the board meeting on 29 January 2016

At its meeting on 29 January, the Board of Directors decided to further strengthen passenger information in the Metro in the coming years. Good passenger information is crucial for customer satisfaction and an important part of the overall travelling experience. Therefore, it is an important area to lift in line with the continued passenger growth, which emphasises that the Metro is an attractive product for passengers.

The board was also informed that the metro construction project has reached an important milestone, as all of the M3 line's 17 stations have now been excavated. Marmorkirken was the last station to be excavated and, as expected, this was done without damage to the historic church, which is very close to the construction site. The station is now ready to receive the tunnel boring machines, which will arrive at the shaft at Marmorkirken in the spring.

Finally, the board also received an update on the metro construction in Nordhavn. In this connection, the board has a strong focus on ensuring good opportunities for passengers who will be changing from S-train to Metro at Nordhavn Station in the future.

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