Approximately one hundred people attended a public meeting organized on Thursday, October 8th by the Municipality to relaunch the development project for an urban park at Espace Beaunier. This future park, located on rue Paul Bert, is part of a larger initiative to redevelop 55,000 m² of industrial brownfields into an eco-responsible residential area.
The 12,106 m² site designated for the park presents several constraints: it must be decontaminated due to its industrial past and will host a rainwater retention basin, a responsibility of Saint-Étienne Métropole. An agreement will be signed between the Town Hall and the Metropolis for its realization. The Mayor emphasized the historical importance of this project, aiming to create a more vibrant space.
The initial orientations presented include a green park with accessible pathways for all (pedestrians, cyclists, strollers, people with reduced mobility), public lighting with presence detectors to limit light pollution, and video surveillance for security. Various facilities are planned: 2 fenced beach volleyball courts with outdoor showers, a pétanque court for local residents, a "road safety" course, and play areas for children aged 1 to 5, as well as services like public restrooms and fountains.
The chosen scenario for rainwater retention involves a partially submersible park. This planted area will temporarily hold rainwater, which will quickly infiltrate the soil, thus preventing flooding risks and mosquito breeding. Footbridges and paths on dikes will allow visitors to stroll through a changing landscape and observe biodiversity.
The remarks and suggestions from the attending residents were noted. This consultation phase will allow the municipality to refine the project by considering everyone's input, while respecting the general interest. The final project will be presented to the public at a later date.
