Seafront works: a headache... for 70 more spaces
The decision on when to carry out works in a community always involves a delicate balance between technical, financial, political and human constraints. And, inevitably, every construction project causes its share of exasperation among residents — and sometimes among tourists.
It is not easy to schedule construction work while avoiding both hurricane season and peak tourist season. Each time frame has its constraints. During tourist season, when traffic is already congested, even the smallest construction project further complicates travel and exacerbates parking difficulties. In Marigot, where traffic and parking are already a daily challenge, the temporary reduction in available spaces exacerbates the tension. This time, all eyes are on the seafront. The Collectivité has announced the start of work to create a 70-space car park along Boulevard de France in Marigot. The project has been entrusted to the company GETELEC TP. The development concerns an area that has been used in an unregulated manner until now. Work began in mid-February 2026 and is expected to last seven weeks, until mid-April. The aim of these parking spaces is to improve the functionality and safety of the road infrastructure for the benefit of all users. In addition to the car park, the project also includes the creation of a promenade linking the future car park area to the market square. Its completion is scheduled for the second half of 2026. This development is part of a broader effort to revitalise the town centre. During this period, traffic disruptions are to be expected in the vicinity of the construction site. The Collectivité invites users to exercise caution and adapt their travel plans in the area.
The Local Authority thanks the public for their understanding during these public works. However, on the ground, the annoyance is palpable. Another topic of discussion is the growing number of spaces reserved for taxis in the town centre. Several locations are now dedicated to taxis, notably in front of the Marina Royale and on Rue du Général de Gaulle. This situation has raised questions among some motorists, especially since the seafront car park reserved for taxis often seems to be underused, despite being just a stone's throw from the town centre. The question is worth asking. Would tourists refuse to walk a few steps? Perhaps we should point out to them that walking is good for their health?
