Tourist trap or the world’s most beautiful avenue? If the Avenue des Champs Elysées embodies a strong image abroad, it does not always win unanimous support from Ile-de-France inhabitants. For a few years, the famous avenue dreamed by people has been in full renewal, especially with the opening of big places such as Champs-Elysées Galeries Lafayette or the Pierre Hermé tearoom. The transition we know of this iconic site in Paris could go even further.
The Comité des Champs Elysées invited Ile-de-France inhabitants to tell what they wish for this iconic avenue in a survey running from February 14 to June 4, 2020. All in all, about 100,000 inhabitants, including 50% of Parisians, have played the game. So, how do they see the re-enchantment of the most beautiful avenue in the world?
According to news from 20 Minutes, Ile-de-France inhabitants have an overall feeling they want the Champs-Elysées to be greener with more trees. But careful though, if participants vote for a more secured pedestrian pathway from the Tuileries to the Champs-Elysées, total pedestrianization of the avenue is mostly rejected.
As for stores, surveyed people also said they wanted to see more offers that are authentic and Made in France. They would rather see French lifestyle, gastronomy, and know-how promoted on the avenue that works as an international window display, at the expense of opening big international chains. From the same perspective, improving and preserving the architectural heritage is also wanted by Ile-de-France inhabitants.
Another aspect is also raised by the survey, security, and cleanliness. Surveyed people want to see the fight against delinquency and especially against pickpockets and unwanted request increase, and more measures as for the cleanliness of the avenue.
And you, how do you see tomorrow’s Champs Elysées?