The heritage restoration sector in France is expressing serious concerns over significant budget reductions, which professionals say could threaten both historic monuments and the businesses that work to restore them. Richard Boyer, co-president of the Groupement des entreprises de restauration de monuments historiques (GMH), has called on President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu to ensure that funding for cultural heritage is maintained in the 2027 budget. Boyer highlighted that the sector has faced a "drastic" budget cut since 2026, with a reported 30% decrease in engagement authorizations from the Ministry of Culture. These authorizations are official approvals needed to begin restoration projects, and their reduction signals a slowdown in activity across the field. Boyer noted that the impact of these cuts is already being felt, with some businesses in the sector closing down. For example, two companies involved in the reconstruction of Notre-Dame Cathedral, which suffered major damage in a 2019 fire, have shut down during the year. The overall activity in the restoration sector has dropped by about 15%, with several projects either being canceled or not renewed. This decline has raised alarms among professionals who argue that the heritage restoration industry not only preserves France’s cultural identity but also contributes significantly to the economy. According to Boyer, the economic benefits of investing in heritage are substantial. He estimates that the sector generates about three billion euros in direct economic returns annually, not including the additional revenue from tourism linked to historic sites. This figure underscores the importance of maintaining funding for the sector, as it supports jobs and contributes to local economies. However, the current financial strain is prompting concerns that the long-term viability of these businesses could be at risk if budget cuts continue. Catherine Pégard, the Minister of Culture, has acknowledged the challenges facing the sector and stated that efforts will be needed to prevent even more severe consequences in the future. While she did not specify immediate actions, her comments suggest that the government is aware of the potential impact of budget reductions on the heritage restoration industry. As the debate over funding continues, the sector is hoping for a commitment to support its vital role in preserving France’s rich cultural heritage.