Cluny in Clunisois severely criticizes the project to create a tourist office

IN BRIEF Meeting of the opposition group “Cluny en Clunisois” to discuss the tourism office project. Critique of the high costs of the project proposed by the Community of communes. Proposal for an alternative site that is less expensive and more suitable. Urgency to decide on the tourism office in response to local needs. Environmental impact mentioned in relation to the construction of the new building.

The project to create a new tourism office in Cluny has sparked intense debates within the community. The opposition group Cluny en Clunisois, during a recently held meeting, expressed its strong disagreement with this project, which it considers not only costly but also detrimental to the authenticity of the region. Elected officials, supported by a large number of residents, have highlighted alternatives that could better meet local needs without compromising the cultural identity of Cluny.

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The importance of a local voice #

The meeting organized by Cluny en Clunisois gathered a significant number of residents eager to discuss the implications of the tourism office project. The intervention of Jean-François Demongeot, leader of the group, was particularly noted. He articulated concerns fueled by a thorough analysis of the effects of such infrastructure on the landscape and economic life of Cluny.

Arguments against the project

Opponents highlight that the estimated cost of 9.9 million euros for the new building is exorbitant, especially during a period of budgetary constraints. They also question the optimal use of available resources. According to them, the creation of a tourism office in this location could not only place a heavy burden on taxpayers’ finances but also alter the historical character of the city, often seen as a haven of peace.

A thoughtful alternative #

Instead of constructing a new building, Cluny en Clunisois proposes to reuse existing facilities, such as the old treasury. This approach, estimated at around 1 million euros, is presented as a way to respect the environment and avoid additional greenhouse gas emissions. The opposition group insists that such a solution would be quicker to implement and aligned with citizens’ expectations.

An urgency to meet local needs

Members of the opposition group assert that there is a real urgency to develop solutions that address the immediate needs of the population without resorting to costly and lengthy projects. The current project, in their view, does not take into account the sentiments of the residents nor their vision for the future of Cluny.

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Cultural and heritage implications #

One aspect often overlooked in the debate over the new tourism office is its impact on Cluny’s cultural heritage. The group Cluny en Clunisois reminds that the city has a unique heritage that could be altered by the rampant commercialization that a poorly placed tourism office could induce. Its members emphasize the importance of preserving the authenticity and charm of the city, key elements of its attractiveness.

A call for collective reflection

The position of Cluny en Clunisois constitutes a call for collective reflection on the future of the city. By inviting citizens to participate in the debate, the group hopes to foster a constructive discussion around the different projects, while placing the interests of the community at the heart of decisions. Their debate does not limit itself to numbers and premises but takes into account the vision of a city where heritage remains central to concerns.