Lyon, May 21 – The Château des Mères Park, a new 9,200 square meter green space, has officially opened to the public in the Gerland district of Lyon’s 7th arrondissement. This development is part of the ongoing renovation of the Cité Jardin de Gerland and offers residents a much-needed natural retreat.
A Significant Step for Urban Greenery in Lyon
The opening of the park marks a significant milestone in the Cité Jardin renovation project, with major housing renovations scheduled to begin later this year. The park, formerly a green area of a bourgeois property, now provides a vital public amenity.
Sophia Popoff, Deputy Mayor of Lyon for green spaces, biodiversity, animal welfare, and food, emphasized the importance of this new park: “It is crucial in a city lacking in nature, where access to parks and gardens is 5 m² per inhabitant, against an WHO recommendation of 10 m² per inhabitant.”
Transitional Development with Future Plans
The current park layout is a transitional arrangement, designed with a focus on frugality and a budget of 300,000 euros. It includes a classified wooded area surrounded by a perimeter path, a meadow, and an ornamental lawn, along with urban furniture. The City’s Biodiversity and Urban Nature Department aims to test various uses while balancing biodiversity preservation with public access.
The definitive version of the Château des Mères Park is expected by 2028 and will be developed in consultation with local residents. Future plans envision an extension of 4,000 m², bringing the total green space to 13,000 m². This expanded park will potentially include playgrounds, a dog park, relaxation areas, and sports facilities.
Community Involvement and Future Prospects
An ongoing selection process is underway to appoint a design team responsible for integrating the future amenities and facilities with the central arena of the Cité Jardin, ensuring overall coherence. Discussions are also planned regarding the future of a small pavilion located within the upcoming extension.
Fanny Dubot, Mayor of the 7th arrondissement, suggested that the building “could house a public service, such as a branch of the town hall.”
Grégory Doucet reiterated that the Château des Mères Park is the first of six new green spaces promised to Lyon residents during the last municipal election campaign, underscoring the city’s commitment to enhancing urban greenery.
Impact on Local Residents and Environment
The new park is expected to significantly improve the quality of life for Gerland residents by providing a much-needed space for recreation and relaxation. It also contributes to the city’s broader environmental goals by increasing green infrastructure and promoting biodiversity within an urban setting.
The Cité Jardin de Gerland renovation project is anticipated to span over a decade, with the park serving as an early and tangible benefit for the community.
Source: https://www.tpbm-presse.com/69000-lyon/un-parc-de-9-000-m2-ouvre-ses-portes-dans-le-7e-arrondissement-de-lyon-248172.html
