Sian d’Aqui: What actions do you plan to take in favor of the return of the Court of Appeal?
Philippe Vardon: First of all, it is crucial to put a stop to the reform instituted by the Minister of Justice. Indeed, the justice reform implemented by Rachida Dati is deeply centralizing in spirit. Under the guise of saving public money, we once again see the center playing against the periphery, megacities against human-sized cities. It is clear that without challenging the Dati reform, we can forget any fight for the return of our Court of Appeal. I appreciate that you accurately speak of RETURN and not just installation. Once this grim reform is buried, it seems to me that action should be taken on multiple levels starting with the lawyers. An audit of the travel costs to Aix (for both lawyers and litigants) should be carried out. This seems to me a compelling argument. Finally, the first action to consider, in my opinion, is a political sanction for local friends of Ms. Dati (and therefore of the UMP…) and all those who do not really mobilize for the Court of Appeal.
Sian d’Aqui: What structure will be implemented in the location of the current southern station?
Philippe Vardon: I once thought that setting up a covered market accommodating the traders from the current “Market of Libé” located on Joseph Garnier could be a good solution. However, numerous discussions with market exhibitors and the street’s traders dissuaded me. Nevertheless, a real prestigious project is necessary for this space. This area—highly populated and located along the tram route—lacks real efficient cultural facilities. We propose the installation of a cultural complex, keeping the current structure, of course. This multipurpose and adaptable complex would somewhat be the equivalent in this district of the Espace Magnan or the Théâtre Lino Ventura. We could envision exhibitions, conferences, concerts, and shows. I think that terraces with cafes and restaurants could be set up on the roof of this building, the rental of the locations allowing to finance part of the activities. The view of the city from there is magnificent!
Sian d’Aqui: What is your position on the future grand stadium and what is the envisaged timeframe?
Philippe Vardon: Garderen lou Ray! For us, it’s clear that the grand stadium must be built on the site of our beloved Ray. It’s the club’s identity that is at stake. Le Gym must remain at the heart of Nice, even if it is less profitable for shareholders and thwarts their regional ambitions… By insisting on the Plaine, politicians and club managers are completely unaware of the passionate Nissart fervor for the Aiglons. OGC Nice is a deeply Niçois club, a true element of our heritage. Do they imagine that people from Cannes or Toulon will suddenly dream in red and black? Do they expect them to sing Nissa la bella with all the heart our supporters put into it at each game? You can see how detached this position is from the club’s real lived identity. Choosing the Ray is also choosing a sport with a human face against the football-business that takes clubs away from their supporters. The works should, however, be initiated as soon as possible, and in my view, working turns by turns.
