"When you have a lease, you are responsible for the village's economy": in Breil-sur-Roya, the town hall is fighting against commercial vacancies

The mayor of Breil, Sébastien Olharan, makes a simple observation of his town. "The town center has been deserted for quite a few years. Many businesses closed between 2015 and 2020. There was a boost after Covid, with seven or eight new ones. But some of them closed after the storm, in addition to old ones like the bakery," he summarizes . Aware that statistically, throughout France, a large proportion of businesses close within two years.

"That said, for the past year, we've been on the up. And on the city hall side, we've done everything we can to encourage it," he says. He points out that two studies on economic dynamism were recently conducted—as part of the Small Towns of Tomorrow initiative and by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Based on the assessments carried out on this occasion, a number of actions were proposed.

"Among them was the acquisition of commercial premises—a measure we already had on the agenda—and the implementation of a tax on vacant premises." About ten owners are currently paying the latter. "The problem is that there are quite a few commercial premises that people don't want to rent out. They prefer to sell or do nothing. This is detrimental to the community. I believe that when you have a lease, you are responsible for the village's economy."

As for acquisitions, things are moving forward. The municipal council has already deliberated on nine premises in total. On Thursday afternoon, the mayor was in Menton for a signing concerning the former Bar de l'Étoile. "With the upcoming demolition of the Guidi building, it's one of the few buildings that will remain on Place Brançion, so its acquisition is strategic. We'll need thriving businesses to keep the square vibrant," comments Sébastien Olharan. He also mentioned two buildings on Rue Pasteur - newly owned by the City - that will eventually overlook it.

"The premises that were in a condition to be rented have been rented," the elected official adds. "This is the case for Jelia and the Osemp shop. A third is free since the opening planned for September will probably not happen." The other premises (Ciappera and Pasteur streets) will only be able to be put into service after work. "When someone rents municipal premises, it's not up to me to say whether it will work or not. But I tend to think that it will always be better than a closed shutter..."

To facilitate the establishment of businesses, the town hall has also issued public domain occupation agreements for terraces, created parking, and secured pedestrian paths. "People often approach me about food trucks. It hasn't happened yet, but I'm in favor of it."