As Central Paris closes to through traffic this month, we’re giving an exclusive update for 56Paris blog readers.
This is another major environmental change for our city, designed to place Paris among Europe’s ‘greenest’ cities by 2030.
But the project is not without its detractors. We examine both sides of the story.
A new era for drivers in Paris
It’s the latest change taking place in Paris.
From November 4, 2024, there are new restrictions in place for those driving through the most central areas of the capital.
This initiative, known as a ‘Zone à Trafic Limité’ (ZTL – or ‘limited traffic zone’) restricts who can drive through the first four arrondissements (districts) of Paris.
It’s a large area covering some two square miles, and home to around 100,000 Parisians.
But this is not a total traffic ban – and there are many exceptions to the rules.
A ban only on ‘through traffic’ in Central Paris
The new policy isn’t about creating a pedestrian-only zone.
Instead, it restricts vehicles from passing through the designated area – unless they have a specific destination within it.
Exceptions to the rule include emergency vehicles, taxis and buses. Of course, those living and working in these areas are still permitted to use their cars – for now at least.
Others with legitimate reasons such as medical appointments, or visits to restaurants, bars and entertainment venues within the first four districts, are also still free to drive through the ZTL.
Why is the ZTL being introduced?
The primary goal of the ZTL is to reduce the non-stop daily influx of vehicles that are merely transiting through the area, causing pollution, noise and congestion.
Current estimates, before the ban, suggest between 350,000 and 550,000 vehicles a day are driving through these areas.
By implementing the ZTL, city officials expect a traffic reduction of approximately 30% on major routes such as Avenue de l’Opéra, and around 15% on others like Boulevard de Sébastopol.
Another commitment to the ‘greening’ of Paris
This new initiative is part of Anne Hidalgo’s campaign to transform Paris into a leading green city. It follows similar measures in other European capitals such as Madrid, Milan and Rome.
In short, the ZTL aims to free up public space, enhance overall air quality and create a more livable urban environment.
Since its announcement in 2021, the city has engaged in extensive discussions to finalize the borders of the traffic zone, ensuring that it meets both environmental goals and the needs of residents.
But not everyone is fully on board with the new plans.
A breath of fresh air?
For many Parisians and visitors, it's a welcome step towards a cleaner, greener city.
However, some people worry that the ban will harm local businesses by deterring customers from visiting the shops and restaurants within the zone.
Another concern is that the ZTL will simply move the traffic out and onto other streets, causing congestion there instead.
However, the changes won’t happen overnight.
Six months to adapt – education before enforcement
For the first six months, drivers passing through the new ZTL can expect an ‘adaptation’ period. That means that during this time, there will be no fines issued.
Instead, the focus will be on education. New road signs are already in place, detailing the change in rules.
Volunteer teams are also planned, to help inform motorists about the new rules. They’ll clarify the vehicles allowed, and help with the transition to the new traffic management system.
But after this grace period, enforcement will begin – with fines of €135 for unauthorized vehicles found flouting the rules.
For now, officials do not plan to implement camera control. However, they might consider it in the future as the city evaluates the initiative’s effectiveness.
Finding the right property for you
As Central Paris closes to through traffic, only time will tell what environmental impact the ZTL will have on our city.
If you’re thinking about Paris as your dream destination to own an apartment, please do get in touch with our team of local, English-speaking property experts. We can help you make your dreams a reality!
Just one example of a property for sale, is this move-in ready, top-floor apartment in the 4th district, with stunning Seine views. With three bedrooms and two bathrooms, it offers breathtaking views of the Paris skyline from its balcony and expansive rooftop terrace.
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