Lyon, September 7 – The mayor of Lyon, Grégory Doucet, announced on Monday that the municipality will provide accommodation for approximately 130 young migrants who have been residing in tents in the Chartreux Garden, located in the Croix-Rousse district. The initiative aims to offer dignified housing and support to those who have endured harsh conditions.
Municipal Building to House Migrants by End of October
The mayor stated during a press briefing organized by the Lyon Press Club that a municipal building would be used to house the migrants “by the end of October.” This move comes after months of the young people living in precarious conditions.
“They are living in an undignified situation; they have endured storms and heatwaves for months and months,” Doucet lamented to journalists. The municipality plans to reopen the Favre boarding school, which closed in July, to facilitate this housing.
Renovations Underway for Dignified Reception
Doucet emphasized that “works are currently being carried out to create a dignified reception area. We want to offer dignified social and health support.” The accommodation will cater to 130 young individuals, some of whom are believed to be isolated minors awaiting asylum applications. The Chartreux Garden encampment previously hosted between 200 and 250 migrants, depending on the season.
“This is a municipal site open for a maximum of 18 months, so that people have time to find prospects,” Grégory Doucet added, highlighting the temporary nature of the solution while providing a stable environment for the migrants to plan their futures.
Context: Previous Evictions and Broader Migration Issues
The mayor also expressed regret over the eviction of 280 women and children who were illegally occupying a building on Place de Milan in Part-Dieu. This broader context underscores the ongoing challenges related to migration and housing in the region.
The decision to shelter the migrants from Chartreux Garden has been met with varied reactions, but the municipality’s stated goal is to ensure humane treatment and support for vulnerable populations.
Impact on the Community and Future Steps
The relocation of the migrants from the Chartreux Garden is expected to improve public health and safety conditions in the area. Local residents and community organizations have been vocal about the need for a more sustainable solution for the migrants. The municipality’s plan includes not only housing but also social and health support to help these young individuals integrate and find long-term solutions.
Further details on the specific programs and services that will be offered at the reopened Favre boarding school are expected to be released in the coming weeks as the renovation work progresses.
This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the need for structured support for migrant populations within urban centers, addressing both humanitarian concerns and public order issues.
Source: actu.fr
