|
IN BRIEF
|
In the north of Lot, a project for a travelers’ transit area has raised serious concerns among the locals. They fear that the establishment of this area, planned in their commune, will disturb the tranquility of their living environment. The concerns are multiple, ranging from the suitability of the chosen land to its proximity to historical and residential areas.
À lire the United States issues a travel warning for Pakistan following a drone attack in India
A controversial project #
In Biars-sur-Cère, the project to set up a welcome area for travelers has taken shape, but it has not been well received by the local population. Residents express their dissatisfaction with the proposed location, deemed unsuitable for this use. They point out the insufficient width of the access road, which would not exceed 4.60 meters, making it difficult for caravans to pass through. “How can we imagine a peaceful cohabitation under these conditions?” questions a resident.
Concerns related to heritage valuation #
The land designated for this area is also criticized for its proximity to the ancient heritage of the commune. Residents, attached to the local architecture and history, fear that this area will lead to a devaluation of their properties. One resident notes that his house, built in 1656, could lose value because of this new installation. “If Biars is considered a village of character, we must protect its integrity,” he argues.
The voice of the property owners #
Among the opponents, some owners of neighboring land are particularly concerned. One neighbor, who did not hide his surprise when he heard about the project, insists: “There has been no prior consultation. Community members are not even aware of the implications for the value of their properties.” For him, the risk is clear: a parcel of land could lose a significant part of its value, which constitutes a disadvantage for the economic balance of the region.
An ongoing mobilization #
In the face of these concerns, the locals do not plan to remain idle. A petition is being drafted, and residents are ready to act together to make their voices heard against the project. “We want our concerns to be heard and considered by the elected officials. This area has no place here,” they affirm, united in their resistance. Anger and astonishment mix as meetings are expected to address the issue of the development project.
À lire When SNCF faces the laughter of its competitors: a look at rivals and their destinations
A cautious institutional response #
For their part, the authorities of the community of communes, Cauvaldor, are trying to calm the situation by reminding that the project is still in the reflection stage. The president of the community specified: “We have several areas under consideration to welcome travelers, but we are at the very beginning of this process. There is no financial programming, and discussions will take place in the coming months.” However, this promise of upcoming consultation may not be enough to reassure residents who have already expressed their hostility to the idea of imposing a transit area in their village.
The stakes of cohabitation #
Residents also express concerns about the cohabitation between travelers and permanent residents of the commune. “We fear that tensions will arise,” confides a resident, highlighting the need to create an environment where everyone respects each other. With lifestyles sometimes very different, the fear of a poor relationship weighs heavily in their minds. The socio-cultural stakes are therefore at the heart of the concerns of the residents, who wish to preserve their way of life while remaining open to the issue of travelers.
