The mayor of Allauch, Lionel De Cala, is repeatedly calling for a reform of the Solidarity and Urban Renewal Law, adopted in 2000 under the leadership of the Communist minister Jean-Claude Gayssot. This law mandates a minimum quota of social housing for municipalities. The local official has taken advantage of the upcoming senatorial elections, which will take place in two weeks, to reignite the debate on this legislation, which he considers ill-suited to the realities on the ground.
Insurmountable geographical constraints
The municipality of Allauch in the Bouches-du-Rhône department faces major natural constraints: 80% of its territory is occupied by protected hills and mountain ranges. This configuration drastically limits construction possibilities. Allauch is one of 49 towns in the department that have been financially penalized for failing to meet the targets set by the state. The fine amounts to nearly €1,4 million, a sum that the municipality strongly contests.
Lionel De Cala argues that the current law fails to take into account local geographical features. The protected mountain ranges make any significant urban expansion impossible. The mayor is counting on the political calendar to make his position heard by future senators, hoping to secure a legislative amendment that better incorporates the topographical constraints of the region.
