A lot of people, and distinguished people, at Rue Trachel in front of Colonel Jean-Pierre Square. The veterans led by former Nice mayor Jacques Peyrat are teaming up with the residents of 42 bis, who are threatened with eviction, to protest against the destruction of the square.
For several months, the city hall has been planning the destruction of the 42 bis building and the square located right in front of it. The goal is to build social housing in place of the public garden and a garden in place of the building. Since then, an association has formed, proudly bearing the name “Schtroumpf” in reference to an attack by deputy mayor Christian Estrosi.
But the residents are not the only ones concerned about the future of the square. The veterans have a special attachment to it. For Mr. Peyrat, this is a demonstration for two reasons: “Firstly, we are protesting against an absurd project! Moreover, this square bears the name of Colonel Jean-Pierre, a war hero. Several times a year, veterans come here to pay their respects.” The message from the former legionnaires is clear; the city hall is mistreating the memory of a hero.
Furthermore, the garden has been listed for some time in the local urban plan by the city hall, “It’s inconceivable to destroy this square, which is a genuine lung of fresh air for the neighborhood!” exclaims the president of the residents’ association.
Over time, anger is growing at 42 bis, still ignored by the city hall. This is despite their attempts to propose ideas. For several months, the association has been trying to offer a counter-proposal that seems, in the eyes of the former mayor, much more reasonable. “With this counter-proposal, the building, the garden, and the social housing by the city hall will be preserved, and everything stays in place.” But this plan is unheard by the city hall.
Philippe Vardon, president of Nissa Rebella, who joined the protest, describes the city hall’s project as a real “scandal. This square is a symbol, a place of memory; it’s total absurdity to want to destroy it.”
While waiting for news of the project, the veterans will continue to pay their respects in the garden, wearing their uniforms and donning their red or green berets.
