Home News European experts’ report stresses the urgent need to preserve the Working-class Housing in Roubaix-Tourcoing, France

European experts’ report stresses the urgent need to preserve the Working-class Housing in Roubaix-Tourcoing, France

February 11, 2025 | Posted in 7 Most Endangered

An expert report released today by Europa Nostra and the European Investment Bank Institute calls for the urgent protection and rehabilitation of the Working-class Housing (courées) in Roubaix-Tourcoing in northern France, listed among the 7 Most Endangered heritage sites in Europe for 2024. These small, linear houses, home to generations of textile workers, face imminent demolition as part of urban redevelopment plans.

The technical report, prepared by a team of European specialists, highlights the architectural, historical, and social significance of five courées that are particularly representative. Located in the Épeule district of Roubaix, the 5 courées represent a rare example of urban working-class housing from the 19th century, seamlessly blending functionality and community spirit. Their preservation would not only honour Roubaix’s rich industrial history but also promote sustainable urban regeneration in line with the European Green Deal principles.

Between 11 and 13 September 2024, the experts from Europa Nostra and the EIB Institute visited the Working-class Housing in Roubaix-Tourcoing, met with local stakeholders, and assessed the pressing threats to the courées, including residents eviction and buildings neglect, and expropriation and demolition processes without proper public consultation.

Based on this mission and after many meetings with the local nominator of the site, the French non-profit organisation Association Métropole Label.le, the experts issued a report that outlines several recommendations, including:

– Halting demolition plans and initiating a one-year moratorium to allow for thorough heritage assessments;
– Conducting urban, architectural, and sociological studies to explore feasible preservation strategies; and
– Promoting collaboration between local authorities, residents, and heritage organisations to ensure inclusive and sustainable urban planning.

The experts urge all stakeholders – local, national, and European – to act decisively to protect this irreplaceable cultural heritage asset. A decision from the French Ministry of Culture on the proposed heritage classification of the courées is expected in the coming months.