Construction work on the new Hall, an ambitious project, is just starting. The first stone was laid this Wednesday, November 6.
It's true that you have to look ahead to imagine the future Halle Marty, temple of Arago de Sète, located in the middle of the Barrou district. The A + Architecture firm, to which we owe the Arena Sud de France and the Palais des Sports de Béziers, chose to demolish to better rebuild the sports facility in the name of Louis Marty, a Sète gymnast who participated in the Olympic Games in Stockholm in 1912 and Antwerp in 1920.
Free Midi – VICTOR GUILLOTEAU
If the demolition took place in July, “everything remains to be done”, readily recognizes the architect Gilles Gal. “The first work is starting, we are pouring the foundations tomorrow (this Wednesday). The challenge is great and we must play as a team to deliver these major works on time.” The “deadline” of the site is set for the first home match of the next Arago Volleyball season, i.e. September/October 2025. “As late as possible…”adds the architect with a half-smile.
Because the project is immense and supports a strong ambition, that of a “iconic architecture”inspired by a cauldron. Gilles Gal speaks readily of “petite Arena” to qualify this future 1,600-seat enclosure surrounding the Sète players' floor.
The parquet, in fact, will have a very special detail, since Mayor François Commeinhes has confirmed that the Halle Marty will indeed have the covering used for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Parquet which saw the coronation of the French volleyball team, and which the City of Sète could acquire for a sum of around €20,000, according to sports assistant Hervé Marquès. A pittance, so to speak, for such equipment and symbolism.
Focus on the quality of public reception
The A + Architecture firm insists on the functional nature of this new hall. “A place dedicated to sport, focusing on a quality welcome for the public.” Access will be from rue des Gerfauts on a secure square. Players will enter through the current parking lot and overlook the locker rooms. Designed to be the first living space in the building, the reception hall will allow the public, upon entering, to see the playing surface. From this space, two wide staircases will lead to the ambulatory serving the stands. It is on this R + 1 level that the conviviality area will be located, consisting of a refreshment bar and a terrace protected by an awning. The investment for the City of Sète amounts to more than €7 million (10% regional participation).
Beyond aiming “energy and environmental excellence”the future Hall tends to “offering a modern space to users, on the one hand, which are the schools, high schools and sports associations of Sète; and on the other hand the Arago, subject to the technical requirements of the National Volleyball League”specifies François Commeinhes. In addition, the enclosure aims to become “a venue for sporting or cultural events which can host numerous sporting events, boxing galas and concerts”. Appointment is made in a year.
France
Volleyball
