A Deep and Indelible Scar in the Ecosystems

Ecological Corridors

:: The first step of the planned work is to clear the river banks, i.e. to destroy riparian woodlands which are mainly composed of ash trees and willows. These very important ecological corridors between aquatic and land environments do ensure continuity between Natura 2000 sites. The road embankments would become permanent barriers blocking them.

The new road would not integrate the landscape and the environment as much as the existing railroad. Ten small shuttles a day do not compare with a constant traffic flow, night and day, attracted from the highway. The implantation itself will be wider and, in the futur, will probably be fenced, as many mammals cross to reach the river.

The second most important impact is the loss of rich agricultural lands, to be used to build the road...

Impact on Water

:: The water table in the flood plain is closely tied to the Dordogne River and local ground waters (replenishing and supplying processes). This alluvial aquifer would be strongly impacted in case of spillage due to a truck accident, particularly in the tunnel section of the road.

Compensating?

:: The Council of Dordogne asserts (with the assent of EPIDOR ) that the inconveniences of the bypass project will be compensated by ecological bonuses nearby. But compensation are for projects that can’t be averted. Compensation is not a mean of preservation.
If this site can be improved, it should be done so without being tied to a construction project.
Creating replicas like Lascaux 4 do not entitle us to destroy the original cave now.

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