The European Commission has approved a budget of €320 million to develop a network of secure parking areas for industrial vehicles across the Union, as part of the Connecting Europe Facility programme. These new parking facilities must meet high safety standards, provide adequate rest spaces, and enhance drivers' well-being. Applications for funding are open until 21 January 2025, leaving a limited window for operators to act quickly and strategically.
The first call for proposals (identified as CEF-T-2024-SAFEMOBCOEN-PARKINGS-WORKS) includes a total financial allocation of €160 million. The International Road Transport Union (IRU) has expressed support for the initiative. However, Raluca Marian, the IRU’s Director of Advocacy in Europe, warned that many projects risk stalling due to delays or the failure of local authorities to grant the necessary permits. She has called on the European Union to "swiftly establish a plan to complete the core network of secure parking areas," adding that governments must instil a sense of urgency in local authorities.
