Following the controversies of recent weeks, Laurent Lanquar (EELV) is requesting an audit of the “Marineland” animal park and a study on the site’s conversion. Too many scandals have tarnished the commercial captivity of animals in the profitable park.
After the financial and animal welfare scandals, and the anomalies revealed during last autumn’s floods, the analysis of the basin water discharges into the natural environment, reported by the magazine “Le Point” on January 13, shows undeniable pollution with chlorides and hydrocarbons.
Laurent Lanquar will be reaching out to the Prefect to put an end to these uncontrolled pollutions and is requesting a full and objective audit of the animal park, focusing on the captivity conditions of the animals, the environmental issues of this lucrative activity, as well as the measures taken following the floods.
For him, “it is now necessary to consider the conversion of the site. All the successive scandals, both financial and environmental, discredit the animal park and tarnish the image of the Côte d’Azur, painting it as irresponsible towards nature, caught between overdevelopment and pollution. This activity is no longer economically viable. We must stop presenting such a poor image of our territory, which will deter tourists and devalue the quality of life for residents. Marineland must transform into a high-quality recreational and educational leisure space that respects nature. A study should be launched in this direction, involving all stakeholders (park managers, associations, veterinarians, local elected officials, state representatives, environmental authority, etc.).”
Three and a half months ago, on October 4th, the Marineland park was submerged during the deadly floods on the Côte d’Azur.
Today, the park is still closed. Since October, Marineland has invested several million euros in reconstruction and beautification works for the park. The park promises to reopen sometime in March.
It should not be forgotten that Marineland is one of the main job providers in the city of Antibes (Alpes-Maritimes).
