According to a new European Commission study, the EU is facing a critical shortage of Safe and Secure Parking Areas (SSPAs) for professional drivers, with a current gap of 390,057 parking spaces that is expected to grow to 483,000 by 2040.
Although many parking areas in the EU have implemented safety and security features, a significant number remain uncertified under the EU parking standards for SSPAs. Such certification is crucial to ensure that parking facilities meet all EU safety requirements, providing effective protection for drivers and their vehicles. This is a particular concern in countries such as Germany, Belgium, France, Italy, and Spain, where the availability gap is especially high. Located along major transportation routes, these countries are vulnerable to high rates of crime targeting drivers and their vehicles, making the need for secure parking facilities even more pressing.
To address this issue, the study recommends strategic investments, including the rapid upgrade and certification of existing parking areas that already meet the required safety and security standards. This is the fastest and most cost-effective way to rapidly expand the network of certified SSPAs across the EU. Also, the study highlights that improved connectivity and digitalisation are essential drivers for making SSPAs more accessible and attractive.
To support this effort, the European Commission has committed significant funding, with around 65 parking areas either built or under construction through the Connecting Europe Facility.
The study foresees, that by 2040 a comprehensive, safe and sustainable parking network will be in place.
“Professional drivers are the backbone of Europe’s road transport system—keeping industries running, supermarkets stocked, and passengers moving. They deserve safe and secure places to rest. This study provides a roadmap to closing the gap, and we must work together to deliver the solutions they need,” says Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, Apostolos Tzitzikostas.
Source: European Commission