Protestors Camp in Trees as Court Examines A69 Highway Appeals
On Tuesday, February 18th, protestors camped in trees outside the Toulouse Administrative Court as the court began reviewing appeals against the construction of the A69 highway. The opponents aim to halt the project, a 53-km highway connecting Castres to Toulouse, which is set to open in late 2025.
Beyond its environmental impact, the protestors also question the infrastructure’s future toll costs for users. They are hopeful after the public rapporteur recently reiterated her request for the "total annulment" of the March 1st, 2023, prefectural decree authorizing the project. The magistrate’s conclusions will guide the court’s review of the appeals.
"We simply expect environmental law to be applied (…) and for the public rapporteur’s conclusions to be confirmed by the judges," said Marie-Odile Marché of the "La voie est libre" collective.
Atosca, the future concessionaire of the highway and the current contractor, stated its intention to defend the "public interest" of the A69 before the court. The aim is to improve access to the southern part of the Tarn department. According to Atosca, the A69 has the "support of a vast majority of elected officials and residents of Tarn" and its construction responds to "various challenges (territorial, demographic, security, and economic)."
Last week, the Occitanie prefecture announced an agreement with local authorities to reduce access tolls on a portion of the future highway. Christophe Ramond, the Socialist Party president of the departmental council, emphasized the importance of Tuesday’s hearing following the unanimous vote by local elected officials.
"Ahead of this decisive hearing for the future of this highway at the Toulouse Administrative Court, it is crucial that our Assembly show its unwavering support for this infrastructure, which is essential for the future of Tarn," he said in a statement.
While opponents continue to denounce alleged flaws, errors, and inconsistencies hindering the project’s progress, the future concessionaire asserts that "where deviations are observed" from the environmental authorization decree, "corrective measures are implemented."
Environmental Concerns and Impact on Biodiversity
The A69 project has drawn criticism from environmental organizations such as France Nature Environnement (FNE) and the League for the Protection of Birds (LPO). They argue that the highway will damage sensitive ecological areas, including protected forest zones, and fragment habitats for protected species such as the European turtledove and the lesser horseshoe bat.
Opponents also highlight the project’s potential impact on water resources and air quality. The highway’s construction will involve the removal of trees that currently help regulate water flow and absorb carbon dioxide emissions.
Economic Arguments and Public Benefits
Proponents of the A69 highway emphasize its economic benefits for the Tarn department. They argue that improved access will enhance connectivity, boost tourism, and facilitate the transportation of goods and services. Atosca estimates that the project will create around 1,200 jobs during its construction phase and 150 permanent jobs once completed.
Additionally, supporters of the highway point to its potential role in reducing traffic congestion on existing roads and improving safety. The A69 is expected to divert heavy vehicle traffic from local roads, reducing noise and pollution in populated areas.
Legal Proceedings and Appeal Process
The Toulouse Administrative Court is currently reviewing appeals filed by opponents of the A69 project. The court will consider the arguments presented by both sides and the recommendations of the public rapporteur. The court’s decision on whether to uphold or overturn the prefectural decree is expected in the coming months.
If the court rules against the project, Atosca could potentially appeal the decision to the Higher Administrative Court (Conseil d’État). The legal proceedings surrounding the A69 highway are expected to continue for some time, with the project’s fate still uncertain.
