Overview
- The public inquiry commission, which released its report this week, recommended approval for the building permit and the environmental authorization despite nearly 22,978 mostly negative submissions.
- Pure Salmon plans a €375 million site at Verdon-sur-Mer funded by Singapore investors that would produce about 10,000 tonnes of salmon a year in 24 closed freshwater tanks from hatch to processing.
- Project leaders say the facility would supply about 5% of France’s salmon demand and create 250 direct jobs, a case that drew support from the mayor and the Médoc Atlantique community.
- Environmental groups and scientific advisers warn that water needs are likely understated and cite a Boulogne project that would pump 2.22 times more water for slightly less output, raising fears for aquifers and local water quality over 50 years of pumping.
- The Gironde prefecture now reviews the file, with a decision expected within months and construction possible late 2026 or early 2027 if permits are granted.