French Court Halts Controversial A69 Highway Construction

The Toulouse Administrative Tribunal annulled the environmental authorization for the A69 project, citing insufficient public interest to justify environmental damage.

The A69 highway project, intended to connect Toulouse and Castres, was halted after a ruling by the Toulouse Administrative Tribunal on February 27, 2025.
The court annulled the March 2023 environmental authorization, citing a lack of 'imperative public interest' to justify significant environmental impacts.
Opponents, including environmental groups, celebrated the decision as a landmark victory, highlighting the project's ecological and financial risks.
The suspension of the nearly €450 million project could result in costs between €500 million and €1 billion for securing and stabilizing unfinished works.
The ruling is expected to lead to a prolonged legal battle, with appeals likely, potentially delaying the project's future for years.