Buur (part of Sweco), 2022

As the backbone of the commercial area in the north of the city centre, Rue Neuve has long been awaiting redevelopment. Hence the City's launch of a two-pronged mission involving drawing up a masterplan to guide the revitalisation of the district and then redeveloping the public space of the road and the adjacent streets accordingly.

The masterplan highlighted the need to diversify functions, transforming a commercial corridor into a mixed-use area reconnected to the surrounding districts. Several strategic projects have therefore developed programmes that combine commercial, professional and recreational activities with housing. The increase in the number of residents has made the area livelier after closing time, and therefore safer.

To link the district to the pedestrianised city centre, the pedestrian zone has been extended to cover the entire area. Punctuated by brass plates that will develop a patina over time, the granite flooring in a variety of shades and textures functions like an urban carpet, inviting people to take a stroll. To break up the linearity of the road and ease its hectic activity, the project also incorporated spaces for unwinding. The square in front of Notre-Dame du Finistère church was redeveloped and Rue aux Choux was planted with trees and embellished with wooden benches and low fountains.

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