The extension project for the “U EXPRESS” store in Moliets-et-Maa received a favorable opinion from the national commission after several appeals filed.
The National Commercial Development Commission (CNAC) has issued a favorable opinion concerning the project to extend the store under the “U EXPRESS” brand in Moliets-et-Maa, in Landes. This project, led by the company USUDIS, aims to expand the current store of 999 m² to reach a total sales area of 1,705 m², while integrating a permanent collection point for online orders, “U DRIVE”. Despite several appeals filed by local stakeholders, the CNAC validated this project after an in-depth analysis, highlighting its positive impact on the territory, its respect for environmental issues and its alignment with the growing needs of the population.
A favorable local context
The “U EXPRESS” store is located at 2 401, avenue des Lacs, at the entrance to the village area of Moliets-et-Maa, a popular town on the Landes coast. This strategic site is located 800 meters from the city center and is part of an environment that combines tourist dynamism and residential development. The catchment area is experiencing notable growth, with a 9.9% increase in population in recent years. This dynamic is even more marked in Moliets-et-Maa, where the population increased by 23.4%. Added to this is a high summer influx, which accentuates commercial needs during the tourist season. In this context, the project aims to meet the expectations of residents and visitors while being part of an approach to adapting local commerce to changing uses, particularly through the development of online commerce.
The characteristics of the project
The project involves extending the current sales area of 706 m², bringing the total area of the store to 1,705 m². In addition, a collection point for online orders, “U DRIVE”, will be set up. This system will include three refueling tracks and 130 m² of land space dedicated to the withdrawal of goods. This configuration will help meet the growing demand for practical consumer solutions adapted to new purchasing habits.
The project stands out for its strong commitments to sustainability: Soil preservation: The extension will be carried out on already artificialized soils, without creating new impermeable areas. Increased vegetation: The site will have 10 additional trees, thus improving landscape integration and contributing to the environmental quality of the area. Reduction of the energy footprint: A 1,207 m² photovoltaic plant will be installed, covering 75% of the store's future energy needs. This will reduce energy consumption by 66%, significant progress in terms of ecological transition. Improved permeability: The permeability rate of the site will increase from 35% to 40.4%, thanks to the development of new permeable parking spaces. To promote access to the store and limit the impact on road traffic, several measures have been taken: The local roads are adapted to soft modes, with secure paths for pedestrians and cyclists connecting the town to the site. A traffic study, updated in July 2024, concluded that surrounding intersections have sufficient capacity to absorb the expected increase in traffic, including during the summer season.
A contested project
Despite the advantages of the project, several appeals were filed: an appeal from the company “Guyenne et Gascogne” and a joint appeal from the companies “Pey de l'Ancre” and “Cap Atlantic”. These two companies, owners of real estate in the catchment area, had expressed their concerns regarding the impact of the project on their activity. However, their appeal was deemed inadmissible in the absence of proof of direct and certain damage, in accordance with the provisions of article L.752-17 of the Commercial Code. Opponents of the project feared increased competition that could destabilize the local economy. However, the CNAC considered that these fears were unfounded, emphasizing that: The commercial vacancy in the area is zero and that the project is designed to meet growing demand and should not harm local businesses, located mainly in the town center of Moliets-et-Maa.
The arguments of the CNAC
After hearing the parties concerned, including representatives of the company USUDIS and experts in commercial development, the CNAC concluded that the project met the criteria required by article L.752-6 of the Commercial Code. Among the favorable elements: The project responds to growing demand, linked both to demographic growth and to the tourist attractiveness of the region. The planned developments, in particular the photovoltaic plant and the vegetation, make it a project that respects ecological issues. The traffic study guarantees harmonious integration of the project into its environment, without major disruption to road flows. During the meeting of September 12, 2024, the project was unanimously approved: Favorable votes: 9; Downvotes: 0; Abstentions: 0.
The Moliets-et-Maa “U EXPRESS” extension project marks an important step for the commercial and environmental future of the town. It is part of a process of modernizing local infrastructure, while responding to current ecological challenges. With the increase in its sales area and the integration of a drive point, the store will be better equipped to meet consumer expectations and contribute to the economic vitality of the region.
