France’s stunning coastline, stretching from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic, is a popular destination, with half of the French population dreaming of calling it home. This allure has ignited fierce battles between those seeking to develop and those striving to preserve these precious natural spaces. The “Zone Interdite” documentary, “New Coastal Wars: Fighting the Law,” airing August 20th at 9:10 PM, delves into the heart of this conflict, focusing on the controversial 1986 Coastal Law.
The 1986 Coastal Law, designed to protect France’s natural coastal areas, has become a source of contention. The documentary examines how this law impacts various communities and individuals along the French coastline, highlighting the complexities and inconsistencies in its application. From thriving businesses to family homes and traditional farming practices, the film explores the diverse perspectives and struggles surrounding coastal development.
In La Grande-Motte, a popular seaside resort in the Hérault region, the iconic beach bar “La Voile Bleue” faces closure. Generating over three million euros per season, this establishment, a local landmark for nearly three decades, is now deemed illegal by the Toulouse Administrative Court due to its location on a designated “remarkable” natural area. The owner’s fight for survival underscores the high stakes involved.
The documentary also reveals the seemingly arbitrary nature of the Coastal Law’s enforcement. In Corsica, Julien, a young shepherd, is ordered to demolish his renovated family home on protected land, while nearby, new construction permits are still being issued. This stark contrast highlights the inconsistencies and frustrations faced by those living under the law’s jurisdiction.
In the picturesque bay of Mont Saint-Michel, François, a salt marsh lamb farmer, faces a decade-long battle to save his farm. An environmental group insists on strict adherence to the Coastal Law, demanding the demolition of his sheepfold, despite its crucial role in maintaining the lambs’ Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status.
The “Zone Interdite” documentary further exposes the devastating impact of evolving coastal regulations on homeowners. In Charente-Maritime, two hundred families face financial ruin after purchasing land that is now deemed unbuildable due to changes in the Coastal Law. Their homes have plummeted in value, leading to a bitter dispute with the local mayor.
The “New Coastal Wars: Fighting the Law” documentary provides a compelling look at the ongoing struggle between development and preservation along France’s coastline. It raises critical questions about the effectiveness and fairness of the 1986 Coastal Law and its impact on the lives and livelihoods of those who call the coast home. The documentary airs on Aoutzone, August 20th at 9:10 PM on Zone Interdite.
