Overview

• The A69 highway project in south-west France remains halted following a February court decision that annulled its environmental authorization due to insufficient public interest justification.
• The French State has filed an appeal and requested a judicial stay to resume construction, with a decision expected after mid-May.
• Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau criticized violent opposition tactics and argued that blocking infrastructure projects risks economic stagnation and regional isolation.
• Retailleau highlighted the economic importance of the project for the Tarn region, one of France's most isolated areas, calling for improved infrastructure to boost competitiveness.
• Local officials have introduced a parliamentary proposal to restart the project, with legislative debates scheduled for mid-May in the Senate.