You are entering your fourth term in the midst of a pandemic. How do you approach this period?
We are approaching it with energy, thanks to a rejuvenated municipal team and the determination to guide our commune towards a resolutely innovative approach in response to 21st-century challenges. The pandemic has been revealing, a signal that reinforces our chosen path. Our programme is ready, built upon the three fundamental pillars of sustainable development: ecology, economy, and solidarity.
The previous term was dedicated to implementing the Pampelonne beach development scheme. This ambitious programme already aligned with a transition towards a more ‘cooperative’ relationship with nature – the very essence of our quality of life and economic success. We are entering the third season in this gradually restored natural space. While there is still work to be done, the most challenging part is behind us. We shall now turn our attention to revitalising the village and enhancing its heritage.
You mention Pampelonne beach. What are the challenges in developing a territory?
In the 21st century, human impact on the environment is decisive. We have a responsibility to shape this territory’s story, and we must do so in cooperation with nature. Ramatuelle possesses all the assets to propose a desirable future, one that respects our heritage, landscapes, and resources, thanks to the continuity of protective policies initiated 50 years ago. These values guided the creation of the Combes-Jauffret eco-hamlet, which achieved the exceptional ‘Gold’ level certification as a ‘Mediterranean sustainable building’. Today, it stands as a living space that is collective, united, and respectful of its host environment.
We must also find ways to bring ecology and economy together. It’s an entire culture under construction that all stakeholders, both private and public, must share and promote. The Pampelonne beach development scheme is a concrete illustration of this. Ramatuelle is the first coastal commune to implement such a scheme. It is evolving and perfectible, and already serves as an example. Like the dune itself, nothing is set in stone – working with living systems requires understanding, respect, and time for adaptation. The return of rare species that were on the brink of disappearing, observed after just two years of effort, is our finest reward. This is a significant project that must reconcile the economic interests of a classified tourist resort within a remarkable natural space.
The quality of the establishments installed on the beach is remarkable. All have demonstrated innovation in their design choices, materials, aesthetics, and integration with the site.
What do you mean by revitalising the village?
This programme will breathe new life into the village, adapting to new lifestyles and modes of transport, creating a calmer centre and giving more space to bicycles in particular. It must encourage the development of services that meet residents’ expectations. This project is being built for them and with them, and they will be involved through consultation sessions.
It’s also about accommodating year-round housing and activities while redesigning public spaces to be more pedestrian-friendly. The Baou de Roustan district has already been redeveloped, and the new Health Centre is a success. Now the revitalisation will focus on the village centre. Place de l’Ormeau is the pivotal axis. We need to rethink the organisation of space and create conditions that encourage both economic activities and convivial moments. The commune owns buildings in the village and could acquire new ones to establish businesses in fields such as renewable energy, new information and communication technologies, and so forth.
How do you see the coming season?
Our territory offers visitors what they increasingly seek: opportunities to restore their mental and physical well-being through contact with nature, culture, and live entertainment.
I believe we will speak less and less of ‘a season’, and increasingly of a year-round sanctuary, with charm as appealing in winter as in summer… but with different assets: the beaches, the coastal path, and the forest massif offering breathtaking landscapes and varied hiking routes. Wines that are increasingly sought-after and ‘organic’, a dynamic and promising agricultural sector. An architectural heritage and cultural activity throughout the year. Gentle modes of transport with cycling gaining momentum, and so many other resources that make up the quality of life in Ramatuelle.
