Debate intensifies over train services in Himmerland as DSB revises InterCity schedules

The debate surrounding train services in Himmerland has intensified as politicians in the North Jutland Region revise train stop schedules. DSB announced that several towns will be dropped from the timetable for InterCity (IC) trains starting in 2026. Residents of Arden, a town with a railway station, now fear being among the biggest losers in this shift.

Lea Høxbroe Højbjerg, vice chair of the Arden Community Council, emphasized that reliable public transport and frequent IC train services are vital for their town’s growth and accessibility. Currently, trains run hourly from Arden station, with some peak times allowing for two departures per hour. However, under the new proposal, the IC train will only stop once per hour in Arden, while either Støvring or Skørping would receive three stops per hour.

The local council expresses disappointment with the regional government’s plans. The direct connection to Aarhus provided by these IC trains is crucial for current residents and prospective newcomers alike, according to Høxbroe Højbjerg.

Regional council chair Mads Duedahl has proposed extending the local North Jutland railway to ensure regional trains also stop in Arden, providing an alternative service to other towns. Despite this, those still needing to reach Aarhus will most likely need to transfer trains more often.

The regional council’s decision remains subject to negotiations with DSB and the Ministry of Transport, meaning the proposed plans are not yet finalized. Duedahl warned that if the proposal is not accepted, it could lead to Rebild Municipality losing all of its IC stops, making them the greater losers in this scenario. He acknowledges the complexity of the situation, where no one is likely to be fully satisfied.