The public inquiry commission has given a favorable opinion on the project to extend terminal 2 of Nice airport. A decision that provokes opposition from those against the project. They protested on Saturday, February 8.
The inquiry commission, called upon in the context of a judicial review, gave a favorable opinion on January 21 regarding the Nice Côte d’Azur airport extension project. This opinion was published on February 7. The investigating commissioner acknowledges that this project “is not well accepted by the population.” She recommends the implementation of measures to monitor greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution.
A first public inquiry had already taken place in 2019. It resulted in a favorable opinion. However, in December 2023, the Marseille administrative court of appeal requested a new environmental and health impact study. This decision did not, however, suspend the work, which is still ongoing.
The terminal 2 extension project plans to build an additional 25,000 square meters. This will include six boarding rooms and a check-in room and baggage delivery. The airport, which welcomed 14.8 million passengers in 2023, aims to deliver the first facilities before the summer of 2025 and complete the entire project by early 2026.
A favorable opinion that does not put an end to disputes
Opponents of the project fear an increase in air traffic and pollution. According to one of their spokespeople, the investigating commissioner “did not take into account the data published in the impact study.” Associations estimate that the project will result in 30,000 additional flights per year, a 25% increase in air pollution, and 400,000 more tons of CO2.
On the other hand, the airport management asserts that “greenhouse gas emissions will be 11% lower than today due to improved infrastructure and ever less emissive devices.”
The prefect of Alpes-Maritimes, Hugues Moutouh, must decide whether or not to approve the regularization of the construction permit. The Marseille administrative court of appeal will make the final decision in the coming weeks.