SYSTRA France wins contract for new cycle path

The Ille-et-Vilaine department in Brittany aims to improve the cycle connection between Saint-Malo and Dinard via the La Rance dam. To achieve this, the Departmental Council has awarded the consortium led by SYSTRA the technical project management assistance contract for this flagship project for a period of six years, in partnership with the architectural firm Felaa.

Work will begin once the numerous technical, environmental and consultation challenges presented by this cycle link have been overcome during the design phase and once the design/build consortium has been appointed.

Accompanying the development of active modes in Brittany

The future cycle path will be located along the southern bank of the La Rance dam, connecting La Richardais along the RD168 to Saint-Malo city centre. The technical constraints are more specific to the dam, which is the only tidal power plant in France: this infrastructure serves both as a power station and a road bridge, on which a cantilevered cycle path for active modes of transport will have to be installed.

The installation of the track and the related works must preserve road and river traffic, as well as the dam’s hydroelectric operation. The studies must also consider the crossing of a lift bridge and numerous environmental, heritage and local consultation issues.

SYSTRA France’s Consultancy & Land Use department (DCA) will be responsible for overseeing the various aspects of the project (project management and operations, environmental and regulatory procedures, consultation, and mobilities, in collaboration with our technical engineering experts.

By 2032, active modes of transport should therefore benefit from a safe and sustainable route between the urban centres of northern Brittany, offering an alternative to car use for everyday travel.

SYSTRA has already successfully completed numerous cycle path projects in Nantes, Toulouse, Valence, Ireland and Norway.