New Lyon Metropolis President Suspends Rhône Riverbanks Development Project
Lyon, April 2, 2026 – Véronique Sarselli, the newly elected President of the Lyon Metropolis, has decided to suspend the Rhône riverbanks development project, dubbed “Rive Droite,” just as work was set to commence in early April. This move has drawn criticism from Lyon’s ecologist mayor, Grégory Doucet, who has been a strong proponent of the initiative.
The project, launched in 2021, aimed to transform 15 hectares of public space currently dominated by cars into cycling paths, bus lanes, and a landscaped promenade along the Rhône river. The initial phase of construction, involving the diversion of networks on the quays between the De Lattre de Tassigny and Gallieni bridges in central Lyon, was to be undertaken by RTE.
Reasons for the Suspension: Lack of Consultation and Traffic Impact
Sarselli, a member of the conservative Les Républicains party, justified her decision by citing a perceived lack of consultation and the significant impact the project would have on car traffic. “Consultation with the mayors of the communes is a central principle of our action,” stated Sarselli, emphasizing that the modalities and implications of the 2.5 km project had not been sufficiently examined.
Mayor Grégory Doucet, while not directly confronting the decision, acknowledged a “different vision of the city” between himself and the new president following a bilateral meeting on April 1.
Project Background and Objectives
The “Rive Droite” project was conceived as a major urban regeneration initiative, seeking to reallocate public space from vehicular traffic to more sustainable and pedestrian-friendly uses. Its objectives included enhancing the quality of life for residents, promoting active transportation, and creating a greener, more accessible waterfront area.
The suspension of the project marks a significant shift in urban planning priorities for the Lyon Metropolis, reflecting a divergence in approach between the new metropolitan executive and the city’s current mayor.
Impact on Future Urban Development
The decision raises questions about the future of other large-scale urban development projects in Lyon and the broader metropolitan area. It underscores the importance of consensus and comprehensive stakeholder engagement in urban planning, particularly when projects involve substantial changes to existing infrastructure and public spaces.
Local residents and various interest groups will likely be closely monitoring further developments and the potential for renegotiation or revision of the project. The suspension also highlights the political dynamics at play in regional governance, as newly elected officials often seek to implement their own agendas and priorities.
Further details regarding alternative plans or revised proposals for the Rhône riverbanks are expected to emerge as discussions continue between the Lyon Metropolis and the city authorities.
