In the heart of Nice’s historic city centre, the iconic Henri Betti Square has undergone significant changes in recent weeks. A project led by the City of Nice aims to modernise, enhance, secure and improve accessibility to this public space for residents, people with reduced mobility, local neighbours and visitors alike. A more sustainable and harmonious landscape redesign that has been widely welcomed by local residents.
Located in central Nice, Henri Betti Square has recently been completely refurbished, following extensive works carried out by the municipality. The objective: to transform the site into a new green urban oasis — more sustainable, safer and, above all, more accessible for everyone, particularly for people with reduced mobility (PRM). A redevelopment that has been praised and appreciated by residents of the neighbourhood.
A More Sustainable and Greener Layout
Throughout the month of November, municipal services carried out works to deliver a renewed version of Henri Betti Square to the people of Nice.
The transformation includes the creation of new planters bordered by small chestnut-wood fencing, hosting several hundred perennial plants, as well as the planting of large trees such as olive trees and palm trees. These additions contribute to a better ecological balance and aim to create a cooling green island in the middle of the city centre, improving quality of life — especially during the summer months.
The redesign follows a set of sustainable and environmentally responsible criteria, in line with regulations such as the Tree Charter, which ensures the preservation of urban trees, and the “3-30-300” rule, designed to promote health and well-being by guaranteeing sufficient vegetation coverage — with at least three trees for every 300 square metres.
A Safer and More Accessible Green Space
Alongside this new green setting in the city centre, the City of Nice has also taken steps to improve safety within the square. The entrance gate and surrounding railings have been refurbished to better protect visitors.
Particular attention has also been paid to accessibility for all, especially for people with reduced mobility and those with difficulty moving around. To improve circulation and access, the walkways have been widened and redesigned. The pavement has been extended, and the previously uneven ground has been replaced with a stabilised sand surface, offering smoother and safer movement throughout the park.
A Redevelopment Welcomed by Local Residents
Many local residents have expressed their satisfaction with the transformation and are embracing the redevelopment with enthusiasm. Among them is Élodie, a young mother who now regularly visits the square with her daughter.
“Before, it felt a bit neglected, but now it’s more welcoming, cleaner and, above all, safer. It’s much better,” she says — echoing the feelings of many neighbours who are delighted to enjoy a renovated green space right in the heart of the city.
