The canal banksLa Bassée, Salomé (59)

The La Bassée project is part of an ecological and landscape enhancement of the dead arm of the Aire canal. Located where the Nord and Pas-de-Calais departments meet, between town and countryside, the site is a strategic space for active mobility and ecological continuity. The study covers the restoration of a large promenade and the river development of the area.

The project plans an overall intervention to restore the banks and strengthen the links for pedestrians and cyclists. The renaturalisation of the banks relies on planting a suitable riparian woodland, encouraging local biodiversity and enhancing the canal landscapes. The scheme also includes stopover areas for boaters, the development of light water sports, and summer life on the banks with a seasonal open-air café. Informal play structures, street furniture and appropriate signage complete these features, to offer a welcoming public space accessible to all.

This rehabilitation of the La Bassée dead arm accompanies a natural process of sedimentation, embraced as an opportunity for ecological transformation. In the long term, the basin will evolve into an ecological park, a living and educational place where nature gradually reclaims its rights. The site will thus become an exemplary witness of renaturalisation in an urban setting, while offering residents and visitors a space to observe, learn about and discover wetland ecosystems.