5 associations to the north and south of the Loire are asking for the summer service to be maintained.
© Adobe Stock
Associations La Baule by Bike, Place for Estuary Cycling, Place at Vélo Guérande, Place for cycling in Retzet Bike-Presqu’île are mobilizing and co-signing a press release to maintain the free Pont shuttle.
A budgetary adjustment variable
“While the State has announced the abandonment of the “Bicycle Plan” in the 2025 draft budget, and the Region has made – among other drastic cuts in its budget – the abandonment of the bicycle rental service in stations and the end of regional aid for the purchase of bicycles… we learn today that the Department is preparing to eliminate the free summer shuttle which allows cyclists to cross the Saint-Nazaire bridge in complete safety” indicate the 5 associations in their press release. They say they are worried about future cycling policies, and fear that they will become “budgetary adjustment variables”. More than 5,000 users used it last summer, at a cost of 38,000 euros to the community.
Your advertisement here: 02 49 52 33 38
An essential link to cycle routes
The Saint-Nazaire bridge does not have a cycle lane, which discourages cyclists worried about their safety. However, the Saint-Nazaire bridge is on the route of cycle touring routes such as the Vélodyssée and the Vélidiquee. “This is an essential link in the cycle route network throughout western France. Our associations do not want to believe that it could disappear and still hope that the elected officials of the communities concerned will find the resources necessary to maintain it” denounce the 5 associations. Crossing the Saint-Nazaire bridge will however remain possible, but not free of charge. Bus n°317 Aleop which operates all year round has a rack for 8 bicycles, and connects the Saint-Brévin bus station to the Saint-Nazaire station. The price is €2.60, and you must book the day before.
