Truck drivers in the EU can expect a much-needed improvement in rest facilities. The European Commission has announced an additional EUR 60 million funding allocation to build and upgrade secure parking areas.
Responding to IRU and industry calls for improved professional driver facilities, the European Commission has announced a new EUR 60 million funding package to develop the network of safe and secure truck parking areas across the EU.
This funding, allocated under the 2023 Connecting Europe Facility call, has been awarded to more than ten projects from seven EU countries to build or upgrade truck parking facilities.
IRU EU Advocacy Director Raluca Marian said, “EU truck drivers are suffering from a severe lack of parking and rest facilities, which is also discouraging many from joining this vital profession.”
“This additional EUR 60 million allocated by the Commission is an important step towards addressing the EU’s driver shortage crisis. By providing safe and secure truck parking options, we can improve working conditions for drivers and encourage more people to enter the profession,” she added.
This investment builds on the EUR 141 million already allocated during the previous legislative term, which supported the development of some 70 truck parking facilities across the EU.
The Commission is expected to announce another EUR 320 million in funding by September 2024.
IRU has called on the Commission to develop a medium- and long-term plan for establishing a comprehensive network of secure truck parking areas across the EU.
The plan should address two key areas. Firstly, adapting eligibility rules to better suit the specific needs of truck parking projects, making it easier for smaller investors, parking operators and interested transport companies to participate. Secondly, incorporating promotional and training programmes to help smaller entities understand and access EU funding opportunities.
Secure parking is essential to enhancing drivers’ well-being and ensuring that they have the support and infrastructure necessary to thrive professionally.