Ecological and Urban Transformation in Clermont-Ferrand, the “Quartier des Pistes”

Last month, Michelin unveiled the “Quartier des Pistes” project. At the heart of the redevelopment of this industrial wasteland are specifications that meet the needs of the city while preserving its heritage. These specifications guide the creation of a place focused on health, culture, and tourism, bringing a far-reaching program into existence:

• the Cité Verte and Parc des Pistes: 3 hectares greened by Michelin;
• the Michelin Adventure Museum;
• the “Cité du Mouvement” (in partnership with ASM Omnisports and Clermont-Ferrand University Hospital);
• The 2 Amis: a third-party venue, performance space, and gourmet travel destination;
• Hotels, homes, and local shops, with VINCI Immobilier.
  

The old pistes (test tracks for tires) themselves, souvenirs of a fascinating industrial history and a symbol of Clermont-Ferrand, will be rehabilitated and integrated into the new development.

With the new Quartier des Pistes, Michelin is demonstrating its commitment to public engagement and its support for the revitalization of sites where industrial activity no longer aligns with the needs of the local community and environment.

Taking a holistic, pragmatic approach, our studio is getting involved to create a new, iconic space combining ecology, urban renewal, and methodological innovation, above all through the preservation of biodiversity, sustainable water management, and the renaturation of the urban fabric, while combating the urban heat island phenomenon.

The Quartier des Pistes will thus be an example of sustainability and resilience, anticipating future climate challenges while offering a fresh and clean living environment.

While several scenarios are still being studied and new uses are yet to be imagined, the official opening of the Quartier des Pistes is scheduled for early 2028.