Europe wants tougher security for motorway parking areas

A new European report recognises the need for tougher security for motorway parking areas located at crucial junctions of the trans-European transport network. Brussels is one of those junctions. “To combat human trafficking among other things, it would be best if the motorway parking area located close to Brussels in Groot-Bijgaarden were to be redesigned with a different layout,” says MEP Mark Demesmaeker.

No magnet for human trafficking

Flemish Minister Ben Weyts has already taken an initiative in this regard and has also released funds for this purpose. “This is important not only for the safety of HGV drivers, but also for people living in the immediate vicinity,” Mark Demesmaeker explains. “It is intolerable that illegal immigrants can hang around there virtually unhindered at night and break into HGVs. Groot-Bijgaarden, which is located not far away from the North Station and Maximilian Park, may not become a magnet for human trafficking.”

Mark Demesmaeker also points to the importance of safety on the roads. HGV drivers need to be able to enjoy a decent rest after their many kilometres of driving. Indeed, Flanders is already setting a good example in Europe by getting fatigued cowboys off the road.