There have been several recent discussions regarding the renovation of the Fontvieille Shopping Centre by the Princely Government and the National Council, with the aim of stimulating new and innovating ideas, while respecting the expectations of local shopkeepers.
Over two weeks in July, the Prince’s government and the National Council finally settled on a plan to restructure of the Fontvieille shopping centre, rather than demolish it and start again.
Located in one of the youngest districts in the Principality, the shopping centre is a place of both transience and rest for a wide demographic of elderly and young people, workers and residents, locals and tourists. Many surrounding areas, such as the Pasteur block, high schools and the Louis II Stadium will have an impact on the future uses of the shopping centre.
“Rather than demolishing and rebuilding, the site could be redeveloped, repurposed, and offer new uses while freeing up additional space,” said Atelier Boisson + Boisson Architectes (ABBA).
Themed pavilions
With a significant focus on users, the master plan so far is to create a type of “village square”. The plan proposes new pedestrian flow management, the raising of several levels, 40 additional housing units, work on public spaces, the integration of a small ecosystem and a cinema.
Modular and flexible spaces and themed pavilions are planned to punctuate the shopping centre, featuring themes such as art, sports, and animals. These pavilions may provide spaces for artists, athletes, and communities, allowing for indoor and outdoor activities, and will evolve with the seasons.
Although the initial information meeting with the centres retailers was held on July 24 2025, an ongoing cycle of meetings will continue throughout the project, and more changes may be made.
“The complexity of the project, which combines daily operating constraints, accessibility and security requirements, as well as a dense and evolving commercial environment, calls for rigorous preparation, anticipation of impacts and constructive dialogue with traders and users,” said the Princely Government in a recent press release.
Although settling on plans has been tricky, the future shopping centre may soon add life to the local community and become a symbolic gateway to the Fontvieille district.
