Place de l’Europe

Nestled between bustling Rue Garibaldi and the renowned Halles Paul Bocuse lies Place de l’Europe. Place de l’Europe is a curious blend of potential and neglect. This square in Lyon’s 6th arrondissement seems to hold its breath, waiting for a revitalization that truly matches its promise. On paper, Place de l’Europe boasts a variety of amenities. There’s a verdant square surrounding a tranquil basin. A city stade offers recreational opportunities. A collective compost bin promotes sustainability. An elementary school and children’s playground cater to the younger generation. Parking spaces provide convenience for visitors. Yet, a sense of abandonment lingers in the air. The population seems to have deserted this space, leaving it yearning for the vibrancy it deserves. Place de l’Europe hasn’t been entirely forgotten. The City of Lyon undertook renovation efforts in 2019, enhancing the lighting and accessibility. In February 2022, the fountain was revitalized, and the surrounding area was adorned with greenery and pergolas. These improvements aimed to create a more inviting atmosphere. The municipality sought to “offer a pleasant and shaded place allowing people to settle in the center of this square” and to “enhance” its value. However, Place de l’Europe carries a hidden burden. The children’s playground and parking area, situated near Garibaldi, rest on 5,000 square meters of land owned by the Hospices Civils de Lyon. This land was acquired in 1725 through a legacy. In the 1980s, the HCL (Hospices Civils de Lyon) planned to construct their headquarters on this site. An eight-story building was envisioned but never materialized. In the interim, the land was made available to the City of Lyon. This temporary arrangement has stretched on, and in recent years, subsidence has become a concern. Between 2016 and 2018, SYTRAL (Syndicat des Transports de l’Agglomération Lyonnaise) established its base camp for the C3 construction project on a significant portion of the parking area. The ground was meant to be reinforced afterward. Unfortunately, the backfilling was not done correctly, resulting in ground movement. At one point, the playground slide nearly collapsed. The parking area has become increasingly hazardous, with 26 spaces condemned due to safety concerns. A complete restoration would require a substantial investment. A comprehensive urban project involving all stakeholders is needed to create a space that truly meets the community’s needs. Beyond the physical challenges, Place de l’Europe also grapples with security issues. Residents have repeatedly voiced concerns about safety in the area. The City of Lyon acknowledges these concerns and plans to address them in a meeting with police services and local authorities. Place de l’Europe stands at a crossroads. It possesses the elements of a vibrant community space. Yet, it remains caught between past plans and present challenges. Perhaps, with concerted effort and a shared vision, Place de l’Europe can finally realize its full potential and become the heart of the 6th arrondissement it was meant to be.