The shortage of safe and accessible parking areas for truck drivers remains one of the most pressing challenges in European road transport. The Dutch trade union FNV Transport & Logistics has intensified its campaign to ensure that drivers can count on secure rest areas, highlighting the daily struggles of those behind the wheel.
A Growing Call for Safe Parkings in the Netherlands
As reported by Transport Online, FNV joined forces in May with CNV and Transport en Logistiek Nederland (TLN) to launch a nationwide day of action. The coalition toured provincial government buildings, engaging directly with policymakers. Truck drivers themselves took the microphone, sharing first-hand accounts of exhausting searches—often in vain—for safe places to rest. Their stories struck a chord with regional officials, bringing home the urgency of the crisis.The movement quickly gained traction at the national level. Later that month, the improvement plan drawn up by the working group was formally presented to the Dutch House of Representatives. The proposal sparked considerable political interest, leading to discussions with MPs and the newly appointed Minister of Infrastructure and Water Management. As a result, the problem of parking congestion and inadequate facilities has secured a higher place on the political agenda in The Hague.
From Plans to Practical Solutions
The campaign is far from over. In the months ahead, the working group will expand its outreach to additional provinces, gathering local perspectives and building broader support. Encouragingly, several companies, public bodies, and private developers have already signaled their willingness to help shape solutions. Concrete steps are also being taken: plans for expansion or the construction of new truck parks are underway at multiple locations across the Netherlands. These initiatives aim to address not only the quantity of parking places but also the quality—ensuring that drivers have access to safe, well-lit, and secure facilities. ESPORG welcomes these concrete actions and is ready to support all the new SSPA projects to make a successful contribution to the broader goal of secure and efficient transport in in Netherlands and the EU.
The European Dimension
The concerns raised by FNV resonate far beyond Dutch borders. A recent European Commission study coordinated by ESPORG in collaboration with PANTEIA and TIS underscores the urgency of the issue: the EU faces a shortfall of nearly 390,000 safe and secure parking spaces, a gap expected to grow to 483,000 by 2040. This shortage directly impacts drivers’ health, safety, and recruitment into the profession. Surveys highlight serious concerns over inadequate rest facilities, exposure to safety risks, and the emotional strain of long journeys without secure rest options.
These findings reinforce the need for stronger policy action and investment across Europe. Addressing these gaps is critical not only for road safety but also for attracting and retaining professional drivers, whose role is indispensable in maintaining Europe’s supply chains.
EU Investments – ESPORG members Lead the Way
Encouragingly, this year the European Commission announced the results of its 2025 Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) Transport call, dedicating over €91 million specifically to Safe and Secure Parking Areas (SSPAs). ESPORG members are at the forefront of this progress: nine projects led by ESPORG members secured more than 80% of the total allocated funding—representing a combined budget of over €74 million. ESPORG actively supported these projects during the application phase, demonstrating the strength of its network and commitment to delivering safe infrastructure for Europe’s drivers.
Truck drivers, who are essential to keeping Europe’s economy moving, deserve reliable places to rest without fear of theft, assault, or unsafe conditions.
The Dutch union’s campaign—combined with the findings of ESPORG’s coordinated research and the EU’s historic investment in new facilities—highlights a clear path forward: by working together, unions, policymakers, and industry stakeholders can finally deliver the protection and infrastructure that Europe’s drivers urgently need.
Source: “FNV zet acties voort voor meer veilige parkeerplekken voor vrachtwagenchauffeurs,” Transport Online, 2 September 2025. (transport-online.nl)
