From 1 December 2009, internet users will be able, by clicking on the state map sites, to directly access free-of-charge digital map services.

The manager of the Norwegian Mapping Authority, Ms. Anne Cathrine Frøstrup, stated that together with their partners of many Norwegian public bodies, they released through the Norwegian Mapping Authority a new map service, accessible to all. She added that cartography is for the benefit of the society and is entirely in line with governmental policy of more openness.

Ms. Frøstrup encouraged the users to be creative and use the maps to develop new exciting additional services as well as their own functions related to maps. In order to assist users in this, the website of the Norwegian Mapping Authority provides them with a basic 'cookbook' that includes solutions of how to integrate the various solutions. The Norwegian Mapping Authority is responsible for providing nationwide geographic information and services to private and public users. It also serves as the central governmental body responsible for maps and geodata and handles all the relevant administrative tasks.

The available map services, covering both sea and land, are regularly updated in order to meet the needs of the users. The links to the services will operate from 1 December 2009 for a pilot period of six months. The project will be constantly evaluated and improved.

Further information:

• Official Press Release - Norwegian Mapping Authority - Website