The work does not seem to scare away customers from the city center © X.GRUMEAU – RVA
The city of Clermont-Ferrand is taking a step forward in the attractiveness of the city center, two years after the start of the Inspire work.
The city of Clermont-Ferrand wanted “to put back a little truth” in the face of accusations on social networks of non-support for traders. During the municipal council this Wednesday, December 18, Didier Muller, deputy for Commerce and crafts, wanted to show that the attractiveness of the city center has not changed since 2022.
During the week, there are an average of 3,960 passages in the pedestrian zone. The figure rises to 5,178 passages on Saturday. In December 2023, when Place de Jaude was almost inaccessible to cars, attendance increased by 11% compared to the Christmas period of 2022. The city center also welcomes more businesses than it closes with 425 openings or resumptions compared to 361 closures.
READ – Work at Clermont-Ferrand is on pause until 2025
More than 700,000 euros in compensation
If the attendance results are positive, the city of Clermont-Ferrand will continue to financially help traders who are impacted by the work. In the event of a drop in turnover, compensation is granted to them. Between 2022 and 2024, 57 files were studied for a total amount of 704,505 euros.
Municipal council of 12/18/2024 – Screenshot
The Commerce Deputy nevertheless wanted to remind people that Clermont stores remain accessible. Whether by public transport or by car, with the park and ride parks in the city center.
We need to stop saying that we can no longer come to the city center to see Clermont’s traders. It already annoys them to hear all this nonsense. By repeating it, some end up believing it. Everyone stand behind our businesses.
Didier Muller, Deputy for Commerce and Crafts
The opposition denounces the lack of visibility of the procedures for traders. The mayor of Clermont-Ferrand, Olivier Bianchi, retorts by indicating that “letters were sent to each merchant” and that municipal agents regularly visit businesses. To submit a compensation file, go to the Clermont Auvergne Métropole website.
READ – Compensation, terrace rights… the Clermont metropolis wants to “help businesses get through the work”
