The administrative court in Toulouse has ordered the cessation of work on the A69 autoroute project, a 53km stretch between Toulouse and Castres, citing substantial environmental concerns. The construction, over halfway completed with an expected opening in late 2025, had faced intense opposition leading to legal battles. The court annulled the authorization for the project, agreeing with the public rapporteur that the environmental damage outweighed potential public benefits. Despite the halt, the court rejected compensation claims from environmental groups, marking a pivotal moment for environmental advocacy in the region.
"The order of March 1st, 2023, issued to the company Atosca for the motorway link between Verfeil and Castres is annulled, along with the rejection of environmental appeals."
"The expected benefits of the future motorway were not sufficient to establish a compelling reason of major public interest for the level of damage it would cause to the environment."
"Opponents hailed the decision as a historic victory for environmental law, emphasizing the project's destructiveness and the strengthening of environmental legislation."
"Jean Olivier stated that the decision not only halts the project but also strengthens environmental law, proclaiming it a victory for sustainable development."
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