Worry over government housing project at Saint-Cloud racecourse

A vast development project over Saint-Cloud racecourse has been the subject of much talk in the French racing industry this week, after MP Patrick Devedjian tweeted that Housing Minister Sylvia Pinel was planning to build 6,000 social housings in lieu of the track, located on the outskirts of Paris. Neither France Galop, which owns the land and racecourse, nor Saint-Cloud mayor Eric Berdoati have been contacted at this stage. 

A press conference to oppose the project was hosted by Berdoati Saturday at Saint-Cloud racecourse, in association with France Galop President Bertrand Belinguier and the mayors of several neighboring towns. “Saint-Cloud racecourse is 100 years old,” said Belinguier. “It is absolutely essential to the French racing industry, notably because of its outstanding track, whose quality is acknowledged around the world. Its closure would be catastrophic to our activity.” Belinguier also reminded the audience that 78,000 jobs are fueled nationwide by the French racing and breeding industry. Berdoati added that other possible building slots, already in State ownership, exist in the area. 
The feasibility of the project has been questioned by several political representatives, as Saint-Cloud racecourse is a listed property and a valuable green belt close to Paris.