Mathieu Hanotin: banking on the Ooympic heritage to redefine the future of Saint-Denis
Since his election in 2020, Mathieu Hanotin, socialist mayor of Saint-Denis, has strived to transform the image of his city, traditionally perceived as a territory in difficulty. Building on the recent Olympic Games, Hanotin sees this event as a unique opportunity to change the perception not only of Saint-Denis, but also of the entire Parisian suburbs.
A transformative Olympic legacy
The Olympic Games left Saint-Denis a considerable material legacy: new infrastructure such as bridges, swimming pools, cycle paths, and bicycle parking. Hanotin believes that these developments have not only improved the quality of life of residents, but also contributed to attracting a more favorable view of the city and its region. For him, the objective is now to exploit this heritage to reinvent Seine-Saint-Denis into a desirable and attractive territory, far from the clichés of poverty and social failure.
Safety and innovation at the heart of priorities
On the security front, Hanotin recognizes strong demand from residents. He made the fight against insecurity a priority of his mandate, emphasizing the effectiveness of the reinforced police presence during the Olympic Games. This presence made it possible, according to him, to reveal the assets of Saint-Denis, its quality of life and its hospitality. The elected official is delighted to have obtained the maintenance of certain police personnel after the Games, in particular in the judicial police.
Furthermore, Hanotin plans to transform the Olympic Village into a new district by 2026, with a focus on sustainability and innovation in construction, marking a notable step forward towards low-carbon urban development.
Towards an innovative hospitality platform
By 2030, Hanotin aims to create a hospitality platform in Saint-Denis, taking advantage of its strategic position at the heart of the metropolitan, road and river transport networks. This project aims to reconcile the growing attractiveness of the city with the creation of local jobs, by offering unique infrastructures which will combine accommodation, leisure and services.
Perspectives and political reflections
As for the political future, Hanotin criticizes past choices, while insisting on the need for President Emmanuel Macron to respect the results of the polls. He advocates the appointment of a left-wing government, capable of running the country in a stable manner, while being ready to make compromises to avoid a rapid fall. For Hanotin, consensus on essential issues remains possible and necessary for the good of the country.
In conclusion, Mathieu Hanotin sees in the legacy of the Olympic Games a chance to redefine Saint-Denis and break with the pessimistic visions that have long dominated. Between reinforced security, urban innovations and political ambition, he strives to make his city a model of renewal for the entire Parisian suburbs.
