Machilly protest against A412 motorway

In Machilly, a thousand people gathered on September 25, 2026, to protest the planned construction of the A412 motorway. The road would connect Machilly to Thonon-les-Bains in the Bas-Chablais region of Haute-Savoie.

Court rejects suspension request

On October 15, the Lyon administrative court of appeal rejected an urgent request to suspend the construction of the A412. The request was filed by France Nature Environnement (FNE) 74, along with dozens of other groups and residents.

Opponents challenge environmental approval

Opponents of the project argue that the environmental authorization for the A412, granted by the Haute-Savoie prefecture in late August, is based on an incomplete impact study. They claim the study ignores protected species and the nearby Natura 2000 area.

Environmental concerns and land use

The A412 motorway would cover 177 hectares, including wetlands and habitats for species like the beaver and the beautiful poppy. Opponents say the project unnecessarily duplicates the existing Léman Express railway and increases traffic in an already crowded region.

Deforestation and legal warnings

More than 80% of the trees along the construction route have been cut down after just one and a half months of work. Lawyers for environmental groups warned that delaying action too long could lead to irreversible damage to ecosystems.

Judge dismisses urgency of challenge

The judge ruled that the conditions for an urgent suspension were not met, stating there was no serious doubt about the legality of the prefectural decree. The decision was made quickly, with the judge announcing the verdict before any legal arguments were presented.

Environmental groups prepare next steps

Anne Lassman-Trappier, president of FNE 74, said the ruling is a setback but not the end of their fight. The group is considering an appeal to the Council of State within 15 days.

Biodiversity concerns and ongoing challenges

Thibault Goutin of the League for the Protection of Birds (LPO) expressed concern that economic interests are being prioritized over biodiversity. Despite the setback, the group remains mobilized and has two ongoing legal challenges against the project.