The €60 million package is intended to develop a network of safe and secure truck parking areas in the EU.
Via the funding programme, over 10 projects from s7 EU member states have been allocated money either to build new lorry parks or improve upon existing facilities.
Commenting on the news, 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.”
The €60m allocated is in addition to the €141 million that had been granted during the previous legislative term. As IRU noted in its response to the news, the initial funding was used for 70 truck parking facilities across the EU.
According to IRU, the Commission is expected to announce another €320 million in funding by this September.
Following the announcement of extra investment, IRU also took the opportunity call for 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,” said the International Road Transport Union.