THE LIVING CITY

HISTORY AND THE SEA.
Toulon’s history is intimately tied to the sea and the French Navy. In fact, we have the Navy to thank for this project, since the site was formerly naval property. From the commercial port swimming pool all the way to the Mourillon beaches, the Toulon waterfront will now boast nine hectares of open-air amenity space around the Pipady and Mitre beaches. The area includes the Tour Royale, a former military fort and a gem of Toulon heritage, with its 3.5-hectare park and spectacular view of the bay.

WALLS DEMOLISHED
The project will ease movement between the town centre, the commercial port and Le Mourillon by knocking down the Arsenal boundary wall. This new space will feature a prestigious thalassotherapy hotel and spa, and four buildings to house business premises and coworking and leisure space. Along the same lines, the new Palais des Congrès will replace the Palais Neptune on Place Besagne. Behind it, there will be a sports building. Boulevard Grignan will be extended by a pedestrian promenade all the way to the waterside, with a splendid view of Europe’s finest anchorage.

TWO HECTARES OF GREENERY.
A magnificent 20,000m2 wooded park will emerge from what is currently wasteland, boasting botanical walks, pools and various water features. From Avenue des Tirailleurs Sénégalais to the urban beach, people will be able to take long quiet walks between hillocks, gardens and waterside. The project incorporates a remarkable environmental programme that will include a zero-emissions sea-water-powered heating network throughout the development site.

THE HALLE MARINE.
Because its siting and structure are both exceptional, the former seaplane hangar at the Mourillon arsenal will be converted to become a key feature of the site. It could house various cultural activities, a restaurant, facilities dreamed up in partnership with the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, and wellbeing premises for yoga, Pilates and such.

CASABIANCA.
The building at the end of the breakwater will be renamed Casabiance in tribute to the submarine that slipped away to join the Allied forces in 1942. Like a ship at moorage, the Casabianca will supply all its own energy needs. Visitors will reach it by foot along the renovated breakwater or by all-electric shuttle boat. The breakwater renovation project includes a wellbeing and culture space and a panoramic restaurant, La Vigie.