Nice-Premium: There are two major problems in Old Nice: cleanliness and noise. In your opinion, which of the two should be prioritized?
Marc Concas: In fact, the two problems are linked. The expression that comes up most often is “the most complete anarchy” in this district. We are witnessing a dramatic deregulation, which is the result of the public authority’s resignation. The election of Christian Estrosi as mayor has brought no improvement. The establishment of a police station at Cours Saleya is more of a communication effect: it is open 7 days a week, but there’s no police presence after 10 p.m., precisely when it’s most needed. And we have no certainty about night patrols. Some establishments close at midnight, others at two in the morning, and the last ones at five. Brigades should be present at these times to check these closings and invite patrons to leave Old Nice.
NP: Has there never been effective community policing in Old Nice?
MC: We need a reference police officer—a designated judicial police officer. A few years ago, Gilbert Tenenbaum did this very well: he knew the trouble spots and organized a real community police service. The officers who pass through the district today no longer know Old Nice.
NP: How can we address cleanliness, another major issue in the district?
MC: It’s about rethinking the way waste is processed in Old Nice. Currently, garbage collection is inadequate, as well as the trash facilities. In one of them, on Rue de l’Abbaye, CANCA installed an automation system that cost 70,000 euros. It was scrapped because it was a failure; since then, we’ve returned to the original situation. I proposed a waste processing project using underground suction, like found in some major European cities. I have had no news from CANCA on this matter.
NP: In some places, the condition of the pavement is deplorable. How can we solve this problem?
MC: Some sidewalks are very degraded. Dirt attracts dirt, so it’s time to redo the paving: passersby would refrain from worsening the condition of the sidewalks. Place Rosetti was completely renovated with new paving. It could have been extended. Now, the priority is the renovation of Place Saint-François.
NP: How can we accommodate both bar patrons, who stay up late, and Old Nice residents, who get up early?
MC: We need to find a modus vivendi: people can enjoy themselves without disturbing those who have to rise early for work the next day. Similarly, the police aren’t there to prevent people from having fun and living. In fact, there is no reason to concentrate all nightlife in Old Nice. Other areas could host festivities, from the Promenade des Anglais to Gambetta, and along the tram line.
NP: Can we say the situation has worsened with the latest anti-smoking law?
MC: Yes, by attempting to address a public health issue, the nuisances have been increased enormously. It would have been more appropriate to follow the Spanish example: creating enclosed spaces allowing smoking indoors.
NP: Do the business owners in Old Nice willingly agree to act to reduce these nuisances?
MC: The establishment owners generally don’t live in Old Nice; hence, they’re less bothered by the nuisances. Nonetheless, a number of them respect the rules. In 2003, I proposed a noise control charter, which has since been presented for signing to all new establishments that set up. CANCA was inspired by it to establish their own charter. It regulates the management of night establishments. For example, it requires owners to hire people to manage the surroundings of their establishments.
