Jean-Luc Boujon // Credits: Jean-Luc Boujon 8:14 a.m., March 27, 2024

In Vénissieux, near Lyon, a social landlord decided to install metal barriers around a group of old buildings in the city center in order to keep away the drug dealers who occupied the stairwells. Europe 1 went there to interview residents. 

A radical measure. In Vénissieux, near Lyon, a social landlord has taken radical action against drug trafficking. He has just installed metal barriers around a group of old buildings in the city center in order to keep away the dealers who have until then been operating in complete peace, notably by squatting in the stairwells. Europe 1 went to the site and noted that the dark gray metal barrier extends over 200 meters and now separates these old buildings from the 60s from the boulevard right next door. 

To pass through the secure gates, you must now have a badge. A decision by the social landlord, Sacoviv, which was a necessity in the face of drug trafficking, explains its director, Roxane Michel. “The objective is for our tenants to feel safe and peaceful without having drug dealers intrude into their living space, as could have been the case before. In terms of common areas, we sometimes had young people who occur inside the lobbies of buildings", she tells Europe 1. 

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“It brings tranquility”

A measure welcomed by many residents. "It brings peace to us, the residents of the neighborhood. There were often young people there and it wasn't safe for us, all these comings and goings. So it's good, it's a good idea, this barrier,” explains Kenza, a resident of the buildings. For his part, Francisco is much more skeptical. “Now, they have fallen back on the building next door, which is not protected. That only pushed the deal point a little further away. And anyway, there are also one opposite, I don't know if you saw. They put up barriers 2 months ago and they broke everything. So I don't think that's going to solve the problem," he emphasizes. 

The barrier was defaced just five days after it was installed. The dealers tore down three posts to be able to enter as before. The lessor had it repaired immediately, and now intends to ensure that this new space is respected.