The downhill ski industries insatiable appetite to destroy the natural environment continues in the French Alps. The Vallon du Lou is currently classed as a protected natural area. Despite this SEVABEL, the company that manages the ski infrastructure for Les Menuires, believes it should be allowed to expand its tentacles further. It wants to construct a new 6-place chairlift and a ski run in the currently unspoilt Vallon du Lou.
SEVABEL states that it needs to remain ?competitive? compared to other ski resorts not only in France but elsewhere. It’s worth noting that SEVABEL is part of the huge Compagnie des Alpes that manages many of the biggest ski resorts in the Alps including Val d’Isere, Tignes, Meribel, La Plagne, Les Arcs. It also manages the visitor attractions of Parc Asterix, Futuroscope, Parc Walibi. Clearly it’s more concerned with making money for its shareholders than looking after France’s natural heritage.
A local association, ?Demain Vivre aux Belleville?, is mounting opposition to this project. I’ve just signed the petition to oppose this desecration. There’s a Facebook page here.