Public Rapporteur Recommends Canceling Authorization for A69 Highway Project

The report challenges the project's justification and could influence the tribunal's decision, with a crucial hearing set for November 25.

The public rapporteur of the Toulouse Administrative Tribunal has advised annulling the environmental authorization for the A69 highway project, citing a lack of compelling public interest.
The recommendation questions the project's justification under the 'Reason of Imperative Public Interest Major' (RIIPM), which permits environmental disruptions like habitat destruction.
Opponents, including environmental activists and the collective 'La Voie est Libre,' view the report as a significant step forward but remain cautious as the tribunal is not obligated to follow the advice.
The concessionaire, Atosca, has stated it will present its case during the November 25 tribunal hearing, emphasizing that construction is already well underway.
A final decision from the tribunal is expected by the end of December, which could halt or potentially terminate the controversial project if the authorization is revoked.