Flanders announces plan to add up to 800 truck parking spaces

Flemish Minister of Mobility Annick De Ridder and the Agency for Roads and Traffic (AWV) have introduced a strategic plan to expand truck parking capacity in Flanders. The initiative aims to add between 500 and 800 new parking spaces over the next decade, with the goal of establishing a rest area approximately every 30 kilometers.

The plan involves over €100 million in public and private investment to renovate 13 existing service areas and add three new ones, including locations in Stekene (E34) and Affligem (E40). Upgrades will focus on improving sanitary facilities, providing drinking water, adding charging infrastructure, and creating recreational spaces.

While the plan addresses the need to prevent drivers from parking on hard shoulders to meet mandatory rest requirements, some experts suggest the scale may be insufficient. The Flemish Mobility Council MORA has described the shortage as “acute and growing,” noting that research suggests a requirement of at least 1,800 additional spaces within five to ten years to meet demand.