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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.

La justice annule le chantier controversé de l’A69 entre Toulouse et Castres
Si les travaux doivent être suspendus dans l’attente d’une nouvelle décision judiciaire, ils avaient déjà bien avancé, avec 70% des 200 ouvrages terminés et 50% du terrassement sur les 53 km d’autoroute.
La justice annule le chantier controversé de l’A69 entre Toulouse et Castres
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Overview

  • 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.