Marseille

Marseille - Citizens’ protests groups in Marseille have claimed that the city is facing its biggest crisis in decades as city-centre residents fear historical buildings, which have turned to slums, could crumble and fall. Grief and fury spread through the heart of the city after eight people were killed in November when two buildings collapsed near the picturesque old port.

Citizens’ protests groups are asking how a city that has spent millions in the past decade on high-profile waterfront museum projects and attracting cruise-ship visitors could abandon residents and architecture to fatal neglect.

In 2015, a government report warned that 40,000 dilapidated and dangerous homes were a health or security risk to 100,000 people, many in the city centre, but campaigners say little was done. Hundreds of families in Marseille have been evacuated from flats feared to be unsafe in recent months. Around 1,000 people – many on low incomes – are still sleeping in hotels, waiting to be rehoused.

Last local news

French and Riviera News Tuesday 1st July 2025

The mayor of Nice, Christian Estrosi, and his wife Laura Tenoudji have been questioned as part of an investigation into suspected misappropriation of ... French and Riviera News Tuesday 1st July 2025 Read More

01/07/2025

Evening Update Monday 30th June 2025

Philippe Mettoux, who was set to become Monaco’s next Minister of State, has withdrawn before taking office, citing opposition and lack of support to ... Evening Update Monday 30th June 2025 Read More

30/06/2025

French and Riviera News Monday 30th June 2025

A nationwide ban on smoking in all outdoor places that can be accessed by children, including beaches, parks and bus stops – but not café terraces – h... French and Riviera News Monday 30th June 2025 Read More

30/06/2025

Evening Update Friday 27 June 2025

The Var and the Alpes-Maritimes are on an orange heatwave alert from midday tomorrow, Saturday. A yellow alert is in force for the rest of Friday unti... Evening Update Friday 27 June 2025 Read More

27/06/2025

French and Riviera News Friday 27th June 2025

The mayor of Nice, Christian Estrosi, has agreed to remove the Israeli flags outside Nice city hall. French and Riviera News Friday 27th June 2025 Read More

27/06/2025