The Paris suburb of Saint-Denis is undergoing a remarkable transformation thanks to a €2.8 billion investment in railway infrastructure, hotels, and trendy cafes. Once known for its industrial past and troubled reputation, the area is now being revitalized for residential and recreational purposes.
President Emmanuel Macron is set to inaugurate the new metro station, Saint-Denis-Pleyel, which marks the completion of the high-speed line 14, known as Project Météor. This new line will connect Orly airport in the south to the northern suburbs, including Saint-Denis, making it the longest metro line in Paris with 21 stations spanning 30km.
Saint-Denis, previously associated with issues such as drugs, violence, and social unrest, is now envisioned as a promising area for development under the Grand Paris project. Macron has likened the region to a potential new California, with the 2024 Olympics bid playing a crucial role in this transformation.
Similar to the regeneration seen in East London for the 2012 Olympics, derelict spaces in Saint-Denis are being repurposed into modern residential complexes and entertainment venues. The skyline of Saint-Denis is evolving rapidly, with new sports facilities, dining options, and residential buildings reshaping the urban landscape.
One can admire the entire project from the Skybar of the H4 Hotel Wyndham Pleyel, a revamped skyscraper that offers panoramic views of the area. Nearby landmarks include the Stade de France, built for the 1998 Fifa World Cup, and the new Olympic Aquatics Centre, connected by pedestrian walkways.
Further developments include the Adidas Arena, now home to Paris basketball, and the revitalization of the La Chapelle neighborhood. The once-troubled Colline du Crack has undergone a transformation, catering to heritage tourism with street art tours while addressing social issues like homelessness.
The ongoing upgrades in Saint-Denis and its surrounding areas aim to enhance the overall appeal of the region. Mayor Anne Hidalgo has expressed optimism about the positive impact of these initiatives on the local communities and economy.
