Long ago Les Près was farmland. It was part of the commune of Flers. Imagine fields stretching as far as the eye could see. This peaceful landscape was home to a small chateau. It was called Chateau des Prez. There was also a farmhouse. People called it the cense des Pres. A small chapel stood nearby.
Les Près in Villeneuve-d’Ascq is more than just a name. It represents a transformation. It changed from a rural area to a modern suburb. The development of Les Près began in 1981. It continued until 1995. The goal was to create homes for middle-class families.
A key part of the Les Près story is the Bull factory. This factory was state-of-the-art. It produced microcomputers. The factory operated from 1984 to 1994. Today Decathlon campus stands where the factory once stood. It’s the headquarters of the sports company Decathlon.
Les Près also boasts a significant presence of the Gendarmerie Nationale. Around 450 gendarmes and their families live there. The regional traffic information center is also in Les Près. It’s one of seven nationwide.
The most striking feature of Les Près might surprise you. It’s not a building but a tower. The Villeneuve-d’Ascq radio tower stands tall. It is a modern landmark against the backdrop of the residential area.
Les Près is connected to Lille’s metro system. The Fort de Mons and Les Près stations serve the area. Several bus lines also connect the neighbourhood. They provide easy access to other parts of Villeneuve-d’Ascq and beyond.
The history of Les Près shows how a community evolves. From ancient Gallic settlements to a modern suburb. It changed from a rural area into a vibrant residential and business centre. The transformation of Les Près is a testament to urban planning and economic development. It continues to evolve today.