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Iconic French singer Sheila has taken a public stance against the planned extension of the Paris Metro Line 1 into the Bois de Vincennes. The artist, originally from the Val-de-Marne region, voiced her opposition in a statement published on social media on Monday, November 9, 2026.
Protecting Natural Heritage
While acknowledging the necessity of developing public transportation, Sheila emphasized that such projects should not come at the cost of environmental preservation. “Preserving nature is also about preserving our future and that of future generations,” the singer stated in her post. She argued that the destruction of centuries-old trees cannot be easily undone.
The current project to extend Line 1 to Val de Fontenay involves significant construction, including work shafts located within or near wooded areas. According to the singer and local resident groups, these activities threaten hundreds of trees and risk destroying a vital ecosystem at the gateway to the French capital.
Support for Local Activism
Through her public intervention, Sheila has officially aligned herself with the “Touche pas à mon bois” (Don’t touch my woods) collective. This group has been highly active in challenging the current route of the extension and advocating for the protection of the Bois de Vincennes.
The singer is actively promoting a petition started by local residents, which has already garnered over 17,000 signatures. Her involvement brings significant media attention to a dossier that has sparked intense debate among local officials, residents, and environmental associations across the Île-de-France region.
“With a means of transport, we move; with a forest, we live,” Sheila concluded, urging authorities to seek alternative solutions that balance urban transport needs with environmental conservation.
It remains to be seen whether this high-profile support will influence the project’s trajectory. As of now, the debate continues between those prioritizing modern transit infrastructure and those advocating for the preservation of the region’s green spaces.
Source: actu.fr
