The Prefect of Alpes-Maritimes has authorized, through a prefectorial decree, the restoration and restructuring of the Forges building located at the Villefranche Darse port site, with a special authorization from the Minister of Ecology, Energy, Sustainable Development, and the Sea, as well as favorable opinions from the mayor of Villefranche-sur-Mer, the Architect of Buildings of France, the departmental commission for nature, landscapes and sites, and the Departmental Director of Territories and the Sea.
The historical and heritage value of these premises necessitates a cautious approach, integrating both the restoration of the exterior envelope (including the reconstruction of the central building) and interior design work to offer rental spaces for artisanal and tertiary activities, tailored to the needs of professionals in naval repair, complementing the trades already present on this site.
Indeed, this operation is part of the ongoing plan to rejuvenate the artisanal activity hub initiated by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry at this departmental port site. It is relatively complex to execute as it involves reconstructing the original form of these 17th-century buildings while designing nearly 2,000 square meters of spaces for naval repair professionals.
While the priority in one of the wings is to preserve the frame and roof threatened by age, this operation aims for a complete restoration by the end of the concession (2017).
The availability of such premises for the benefit of naval repair activities is intended to give this prestigious and historic site a suitable purpose: the accommodation and maintenance of classic sailboats from the maritime heritage.
The Nice Côte d’Azur Chamber of Commerce and Industry is overseeing the project management, in close collaboration with the General Council of Alpes-Maritimes, the owner of the site, with support from the Heritage Foundation and the vigilance of the Association for the Preservation of Villefranche.
