A69 motorway opening scheduled for November amid protests

The concessionaire Atosca has announced that the A69 motorway, connecting Toulouse and Castres in southern France, is expected to enter service during the first week of November 2026. This follows the completion of construction works and the commencement of a 15-day safety inspection period.

The announcement has triggered renewed protests from environmental activists and local residents. Demonstrators, numbering between 1,000 and 1,500, gathered in Cambounet-sur-le-Sor to establish a camp and protest what they describe as an ‘ecocide’ due to the destruction of agricultural land and wetlands. Opponents also expressed significant anger regarding the newly revealed toll rates, which could cost a driver approximately 20.40 euros for a round trip in a thermal vehicle.

While the prefecture has issued orders prohibiting gatherings within 200 meters of the motorway, activists have maintained a presence in nearby private agricultural fields. The project remains a deeply divisive issue in the Tarn department, pitting proponents of improved economic connectivity against those concerned with environmental and social impacts.