It was one of those spots that definitely has its charm but is a bit on the neglected side. Place Bellevue, a true balcony hanging over the Presqu'île, is getting a well-deserved makeover starting this June. For too long overlooked despite its postcard-worthy potential, this iconic esplanade in the 1st arrondissement is finally ready to shine again – no fuss, just intention.
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
New Benches and Plenty of Greenery
At the helm are the City of Lyon and the Metropolis, who have chosen a design that is simple, targeted, and useful. The idea? Clarify usage, calm traffic, reintroduce greenery, and most importantly, inspire the people of Lyon to take a seat and enjoy the space. So, what does this actually mean? New benches for chilling while taking in the view, brand new trees to replace those that have not survived the test of time (or pollution), and clusters of shrubs to offer a real refuge for biodiversity. Yes, even the threatened but loyal kestrels in the area will have their own little slice of paradise.
© Ville de Lyon
Construction work for 6 months until the end of the year
The transformation will last until December 2025, with some logistical challenges to keep in mind: Bodin Street will be closed to traffic, and dog lovers will need to wait a bit longer to get back to their dog park. But in the end, an entire neighborhood will enjoy an improved quality of life, with a revamped square in front of the Fort Saint-Laurent, a brand new pedestrian plaza, and an enhanced lookout point to admire Lyon like never before.
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
With a budget of 650,000 €, this project is part of a larger vision: to create a reinvented public space that is softer, greener, and more human. In short, a breath of fresh air... right in the heart of the city.