SUMPs-Up does not only engage with actors at a local or regional level. Working with national governments is also a crucial part of the project's work.
Engagement has been prioritised in countries where analysis has shown that national policies and the commitment to supporting public authorities and infrastructure is lacking.
National governments play a vital role in the development and implementation of SUMPs. The adoption of adequate legislation, the provision of capacity building support, and providing funding at the national level facilitates local level activity.
It is vital that such assistance is forthcoming, otherwise SUMP take-up is hindered significantly.
Together with CIVITAS PROSPERITY, SUMPs-Up collected and assessed information on the SUMP situation and status of national frameworks in European Union (EU) Member States.
It also looked into current barriers and needs in all EU Member States related to SUMPs.
The analysis utilised both qualitative and quantitative research methods, namely desk research and interviews with national focus points, national level representatives, and city partners.
To find out more on the report collating this research, “SUMPs in Member States”, click here.
A series of exchange workshops will also take place, with attendees including national representatives from governments, agencies, and other key SUMP stakeholders.
These should increase the interest and awareness of SUMPs at Member State level and make clear what support is needed.
Cooperation with the Expert Group on Urban Mobility is forming a vital part of any work conducted at the European level.
As at the European level, a series of exchange workshops will be held. These will take place in three countries where a clear need for support has been identified. Based on the policy paper composed at the national level, they will:
The first national level workshop took place in Bulgaria in February 2018. Find photos of it here.
Aside from this, the project will support Member States in the development of their SUMP national support frameworks. If interested, they will receive help to create a non-profit certification scheme based on the SUMP Self-Assessment concept.
The “SUMPs in Member States” report provides national governments with information on the current status of their SUMP-related national frameworks and areas for improvement.