Public protest in Arles

On 19 September, 2500 people, including 140 elected officials, gathered in the ancient theater of Arles to oppose the project for a high-voltage overhead power line. The event marked a significant show of resistance against the proposed infrastructure.

Regional authorities respond

Following this historic event, the regional prefect invited opponents of the project to a meeting, which was ultimately moved forward by 12 days. The prefect received them on Tuesday, 13 October, to inform them that he authorized the opening of the public inquiry preceding the DUP (declaration of public interest).

Collective reaction

Jean-Laurent Lucchesi, spokesperson for the collective, stated that they had hoped the gathering on 19 September would change the situation, but it did not. They are now in the realm of state rationale with arguments that do not hold up.

Setback for opponents

This new stage in the procedure is a setback for opponents who, for three years, have "discussed, exchanged, met, and proposed an alternative solution." The THT13/30 Collective acknowledged this decision with anger and deep sadness, stating they had proposed, built, searched, and reached out, but the state, RTE, and the industrialists of Fos-sur-Mer have chosen violence.

Continued resistance

Opponents of the 180 giant pylons expressed disappointment but stated they were far from defeated. They vowed not to give up and claimed the line would never be built. They stated that they would all be losers and that the state, RTE, and the industrialists have chosen force, for which they would pay.

Public inquiry begins

They added that they had been very cool until now but would start to change their tone. The public inquiry will begin on 9 November for a duration of one month, with a potential extension of 15 days. Five investigators (the maximum number) will be appointed, indicating the expected level of attendance.