Göttingen and Mérida advance sustainable urban mobility plans

Across Europe, cities are redefining the way people move, work and live by placing sustainability, accessibility and social wellbeing at the heart of urban planning. The transition toward sustainable urban mobility is not only a response to climate challenges but also a commitment to improving everyday quality of life. 

The cities of Göttingen (Germany) and Mérida (Spain) exemplify this shared ambition, each advancing local plans that combine cleaner transport, citizen participation and long-term vision.

In Göttingen, work is underway on a comprehensive Master Plan for Mobility, guiding transport development to 2040. Launched in October 2025, the project brings together political leaders, civil society, local organisations and residents in a collaborative process to define principles for a sustainable, climate-friendly and socially equitable mobility system. Citizen engagement is a key feature, with a dedicated working group already developing proposals and the first public mobility forum scheduled for November 2025. Funded by the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport, the plan will align with the EU’s Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SUMP) framework, ensuring Göttingen’s approach is aligned with broader European sustainability objectives.

Meanwhile, Mérida has initially approved its SUMP, a milestone in its commitment to socially equitable and low-emission transport. Described by Councillor Felipe González as a “fundamental tool for transforming the city,” the plan moves away from car-centred design towards a 15-minute city model, where daily needs are accessible by walking or cycling. Key priorities include expanding pedestrian and cycling routes, electrifying the public transport fleet, improving road safety, and ensuring universal accessibility for all residents.

To strengthen engagement, Mérida will also create a Mobility Forum, bringing together community associations, local authorities and transport operators. González highlighted that this collaborative approach would ensure that Mérida’s mobility transformation benefits every citizen, particularly those without access to private vehicles.

Together, Göttingen and Mérida show how European cities are turning sustainable mobility from policy into practice, linking innovation, public participation and environmental stewardship to create more liveable and resilient urban spaces.

Author: Claus Köllinger

Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the European Commission.